SassyCon 2026

This presentation examines the history and the magical practices employed by the American "Powwow doctor” or “Hex."   The practice of Braucherei or Powwowing, known in the American South as “Using for Sympathy” was brought from Europe to America by people of Germanic origin who migrated from Switzerland and Germany during the colonial era. Powwowing manifested in rural areas wherever Germanic people settled.  We will explore various magical procedures and incantations employed for spirit work and healing along with their relations with more conventional religious traditions.   Famous Carolina and Pennsylvania Powwow doctors will be profiled, and excerpts from field transcripts will be presented to provide evidence and context to this unique and enduring folk magical/religious heritage.