Builders' rites

Builders' rites are ceremoniesattendant on the laying of foundation stones, whether
ecclesiastical, masonic or otherwise, and other traditions connected with foundations or other aspects of construction.

One such custom is that of placing within a cavity beneath the stone, a few coins of the realm, newspapers, etc. The ordinary view that by such means particulars may be found of the event on the removal of the stone hereafter, may suffice as respects latter-day motives, but such memorials are deposited in the hope that they will never be disturbed, and so another reason must be found for such an ancient survival. Whilst old customs continue, the reasons for them are ever changing, and certainly this fact applies to laying foundation stones.

Origins

Originally, it appears that living victims were selected as "a sacrifice tothe gods," and especially to ensure the stability of the building.
Grimm (Teutonic Mythology (1883-1884), (trans. Stalleybrass).) remarks "It was often thought necessary to immurelive animals and even men in the foundation, on which thestructure was to be raised, to secure immovable stability."There is no lack of evidence as to this gruesome practice, bothin savage and civilized communities. "The old pagan laid thefoundation of his house and fortress in blood." (Baring-Gould on "Foundations," Murray's Mag. (1887).)Under the wallsof two round towers in Ireland (the only ones examined) humanskeletons have been discovered. In the 15th century, the wallof Holsworthy church was built over a living human being, andwhen this became unlawful, images of living beings were substituted(Folk-Lore Journal, i. 23-24).

The best succinct account of these rites is to be obtained in G. W.Speth's Builders' Rites and Ceremonies (1893). (W. J. H.*)

ee also

*Time capsule
*Topping out
*Cornerstone
*Ship naming and launching
*Votive deposit

References

*1911