Pumpkins with ghoulish faces and illuminated by candles are a sure sign of the Halloween season. Jack-o-lantern were also made at Halloween time during the 19th century.

The practice of decorating jack-o-lanterns originated in Ireland, where large turnips and potatoes served as early canvasses. In fact, the name, jack-o’-lantern, comes from an Irish folktale about a man named Stingy Jack. Irish immigrants brought the tradition to America, home of the pumpkin, and it became an integral part of Halloween festivities.