Question about Mass. culture (Mansfield, Easton: houses, farmers, buildings)

[Janeywan]

Recently my husband and I went house hunting in the southern part of the state and many houses had a large five pointed star on the front. We saw this in nearly every community we visited -Norton, Raynham, Middleboro, Mansfield, Easton. I even saw these large stars inside homes as well.

Can anyone tell me what is the significance of displaying a star on your house, other than for decorative purposes?

Thanks. Hoping to be a resident there soon.

Janet

[holden125]

What do the big stars mean???

There was actually a thread about this a while back. They are barn stars and originated in the 1700 with German farmers settling in Pa. Dutch country around Lancaster. They mean good luck or are just nice to look at.

[missionhill]

I think some of them anchor tie rods that hold the buildings together.