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In Georgian times, the fireplace was a very important feature
in the home, being used not only as a source of heat, but also for cooking and heating water.
The chimney sweep therefore was an important member of society,
as without him the fire would not function correctly. Superstition had it that to be introduced to a sweep on her wedding
day meant the new bride would be successful as mistress of Hearth and Home.
The sweep is also meant to bring the warmth of the fire
to that special day and of course the sweep is black, and black is lucky!
Another reason why chimney sweeps are considered to be lucky
is from folklore that when on one occassion King George II's carriage horses bolted the only person to attempt to stop
them was a small sooty figure of a man, a chimney sweep. It is considered extremely good luck, if on the journey to the Church
you see a chimney sweep and even greater good luck if you saw the sweeps brush emerging out of the top of the chimney. So
to this day to see a chimney sweep and receive the Kiss of Luck after the wedding ceremony is supposed to bring good
fortune to the newly married couple.
Here is an extract from the film 'Mary Poppins'
Writer: Robert B. Sherman; Lyrics: Robert B. Sherman
Chim chiminey
Chim chiminey
Chim chim cher-ee!
A sweep
is as lucky
As lucky can be
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