The Spooky Story Behind This Common Front Porch Design Will Give You Chills

If you've ever enjoyed an evening mint julep on the front porch of a southern home, you might've gazed up at the ceiling and noticed a blue hue. But aside from the simple southern charm and replication of a clear blue sky, there's a long history of blue porch ceilings in the American South . . . and it's spooky enough to give you chills.

"Many Southerners suggest that blue porch ceilings originated out of the fear of haints," writes Sherwin-Williams paints on its website. "Southerners, especially in the [Charleston] area of South Carolina, have a name for the ceiling paint used on porches — the soft blue-green is referred to as 'Haint Blue.'"

But what is Haint Blue? "Haints are restless spirits of the dead who, for whatever reason, have not moved on from their physical world," color strategist Lori Sawaya shared in the post about this blue porch tradition. "Haint blue . . . is intended to protect the homeowner from being 'taken' or influenced by haints. It is said to protect the house and the occupants of the house from evil."

And it's not just porches, either; Southerners are also keen to paint their house trims and doorways in Haint Blue to deter evil spirits and protect residents from ghosts.

Even if you don't live in the Deep South, the blue shade might be a worthwhile choice if you're superstitious. It's better safe than sorry, right? Plus, with tons of Pinterest inspiration for Haint Blue paint colors, you might find yourself falling in love with the ghost-repellent paint hue!

If Haint Blue isn't quite your style — or you're unafraid of ghosts — check out HGTV Fixer Upper star Joanna Gaines's favorite paint shades or colors that will boost your home's resale value!