Powwow
Explore the practices, tools, and traditions of Pennsylvania German Powwow.
Pennsylvania German Powwow encompasses a rich body of healing practices, rituals, and folk knowledge passed down through generations. Explore the pages below to learn more.
The Practice
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Healing Rituals
A collection of Pennsylvania German Powwow healing rituals, charms, and techniques for headaches, burns, wounds, infections, and more.
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Hexes and Curses
A theological and historical overview of hexes, curses, witchcraft, and the Hexenmeister tradition within Pennsylvania German Powwow.
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Protection Charms
Traditional Pennsylvania German anti-hex and protection charms, talismans, and rituals for warding off witchcraft, curses, and evil influences.
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Powwow Tools
An overview of the tools and materials used in Pennsylvania German Powwow practice, from the Bible and string to chalk, wands, and Brauche bags.
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The Lesser Banishing Ritual
A guide to performing the Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram as adapted for Pennsylvania German Powwow practice.
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The Magic Circle
Robert Phoenix's approach to creating and working within a magic circle in Powwow practice, drawing on Psalms and the Lesser Key of Solomon.
Garden & Kitchen
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A Powwow's Garden
The healing plants and herbs of the Pennsylvania German Powwow tradition.
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A Powwow's Kitchen
Traditional preparations and remedies from the Pennsylvania German kitchen.
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Pennsylvania Dutch Food
A collection of favorite Pennsylvania Dutch recipes, from homemade apple butter and bread and butter pickles to corn fritters and Dutch oven bread.
Stars & Weather
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Astrology
How Pennsylvania German Powwow uses astrological timing — planetary hours, moon phases, and zodiac signs — to enhance healing and folk magic work.
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Weather Prediction
Pennsylvania Dutch weather prediction lore, signs, portents, and a traditional charm for turning aside storms.
Culture & Memory
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Hex Signs
The history and meaning of Pennsylvania Dutch hex signs, from their origins as barn decorations to their modern talismanic use.
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Rehmeyer Memorium
A memorial to Nelson Rehmeyer, a York County Powwower murdered in 1928, whose story inspired Robert Phoenix's commitment to the tradition.
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Speak Pennsylvania Dutch
An introduction to learning the spoken Pennsylvania Dutch language for those interested in Powwow and PA German culture.
For the Student
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Frequently Asked Questions
Robert Phoenix answers the most common questions about Pennsylvania German Powwow, compiled from lectures, interviews, and events since 2010.
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Learning to Powwow
Robert Phoenix's guidance on learning Powwow, including cultural respect, ancestral heritage, and the practical steps of Braucherei practice.
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A Glossary of Powwow Terms
Plain-language definitions of the Pennsylvania German and Powwow terms used throughout this site — Braucherei, Hexenmeister, Distelfink, and more.
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Instructional Videos
A collection of instructional videos to help you understand the tradition of Pennsylvania Dutch Powwow.