We tend to associate autumn with the pumpkin automatically. Pumpkin decorations, pumpkin pies, pumpkin muffins, and even Jack-o-Lanterns.

Its name comes from the Greek word “pepon” which, means “large melon.” Throughout various languages, it changed to become the common American name “pumpkin.”

Pumpkins have been cultivated since about 3500 BC rivaling maize (corn) as one of the oldest known crops in the Western Hemisphere. Since their seeds were returned to Europe they have not done well in the climate of their northern hemisphere because they are a warm-season vegetable. Pumpkins can grow in Australia and should be planted from mid-September to December.

Native Americans are said to have roasted long strips of pumpkin on an open fire for food. They also used pumpkin strips to weave into mats.

Jack-o-lanterns originated in Ireland according to Irish myth where a character known as “Stingy Jack” succeeded in tricking the devil on several occasions annoying the devil. When he died the devil wouldn’t let him enter hell, so he sent him eternally roaming with a burning lump of coal into a hollowed-out turnip to travel the earth. Celts believed the spirit of Stingy Jack roamed the world on October 31.

Christians tried to debunk the dark myths by naming November 1 All Saints Day and making October 31 “All Hallowed Eve” where children dressed up as their favorite patron saint.

Because most pumpkins are planted in early June, they are harvested in the fall thus their colors emulate the autumn leaves that begin to turn during that season.

Pumpkins were once recommended for removing freckles and curing snake bites.

Please remember farmers in your prayers.

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens…a time to plant and a time to uproot.” Eccl 3:1-2 (NIV)

(Much of the above history was taken from the University of Missouri Environment and Garden)