The Hag at the Churn

Caoimhin Mac Aoidh wrote:

Is also well known in its Irish title Cailleach 'sa Mhaistrim and should

be interprested as the Hag IN the Churn. This refers to the folklore

scenario whereby witches would inhabit churns to steal butter. Butter

could never be made if a witch was in the house when churning was taking

place. Witches could not tolerate this tune and it would therefore be

played anytime butter was being churned to drive them away. It was a

terrible mark on a woman if she left a house while this tune was being

played and churning was going on. It was a big favourite of the Dohertys.