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Postcard
Wishing You a Jolly Halloween
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Innocent pranks and mischief had traditionally been a part of the holiday.
A farmer might discover his outhouse overturned or a fence hidden. During
the 20th century, this aspect took a more serious turn with increasing
theft and vandalism, especially in urban areas. During the 1920s, communities
began to host public Halloween parties and offer treats to children to
discourage this destruction. About this same time, the custom of trick-or-treating
from house to house began to evolve and gradually spread across America.
By the 1950s, trick-or-treating was an established custom throughout the
United States. Millions of American children, dressed as a goblin or favorite
character, ran gleefully through their neighborhoods begging for treats.
Trick-or-treat was one of the last elements to emerge in the celebration
of the American Halloween.
Halloween Costume, 1940s, ID: 95.14.1
Halloween partygoers and trick-or-treaters
could purchase
ready-made Halloween costumes by about 1930.
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