Popular Superstitions From Each State -- From Lucky Pennies to Hawaii Rocks

Don’t take a rock or sand from the beach, or a lava rock from a volcano, and away from Hawaii. You’ll be cursed by the fire goddess Pele, who plays a role in many superstitions in the island state. You may also be cursed by the authorities — removing natural minerals from Hawaii is a crime.

The most common superstition in Idaho is to throw salt over your shoulder, too. Abroad, French people throw a little spilled salt behind them in order to hit the devil in the eye.

The most commonly googled superstition in Illinois is about a horseshoe. Some people believe it’s a symbol of good luck because the trade of a blacksmith was considered a lucky one. People who decorate their house according to feng shui rules, have a horseshoe in their home.

“Lucky rabbit’s foot” is a common superstition in Indiana: It’s not clear how or why rabbit’s feet became associated with good luck. The superstition may have roots in European and African superstitions.

People believe the Black Angel statue at Oakland Cemetery in Iowa City changed from its previous golden bronze color because of a woman’s infidelity, a reminder to people of the consequences of their actions. Among the superstitions connected with the statue is: Any girl who is kissed near the statue at night will die within six months.