If you somehow haven’t already figured it out, I love Halloween decor.
Or, as I tend to refer to it, “everyday decor”.
I’ve collected a lot over the years. Even in childhood I’d often choose to spend my allowance or birthday money on Halloween-related items. I’ve amassed many different items of many different styles. Pretty much anything that relates to Halloween, makes my heart happy.
I have, however, always had a particular love for vintage Halloween, which seems to be reaching its peak in my adult life. I suppose if I had to describe my particular decorating aesthetic at this point in time it would be something along the lines of “haunted pumpkin patch meets 1950s Halloween party”. I’d own a lot more vintage decor if I had more money and space, and also if it were a little easier to find.
I was incredibly lucky this past September when I took a trip to Delaware to visit my Aunt Joanne. In her area, there are loads of vintage and antique shops, far more than I’ve ever had access to at home, and I had a wonderful time browsing around and came away with some great finds.
There is one item, however, that sticks out among all the others.
In a store called “Simply Charming”, I ran across this deliciously evil looking, vintage style black cat treat pail. He appears to be made of paper mache, and has no discernible brand name or artist signature to be found. He didn’t cost much, so I’m not sure how truly “vintage” he actually is, but he is easily one of the most unique items in my collection and grabs my attention for more than a passing glance every time I look in his direction.
I’ve started referring to him as “Scratch Kitty”, as both an homage to the old Beistle Scratch Cats, and also those particular images of the Devil in which he is referred to as “Old Scratch”. I can’t look at this guy’s face without thinking there’s something a little demonic about him.
As with many secondhand items, I often find myself wondering just what this guy’s story is. It’s entirely possible that I’ve just run across an impressive, but modern, vintage reproduction type product that I’ve just never seen before. But my personal backstory for dear ol’ Scratch Kitty is that he was made many, many years ago as a treat pail for a child, and was rejected for his ultra-creepy appearance. I also think it’s highly probable that strange things may have started happening after he was constructed, but I’ve yet to witness any myself. I suppose that may be because he likes me, and appreciates my somewhat discriminating tastes...or he may just be waiting for the right moment to pounce.
Either way, one day I plan to write a much more detailed story about what I see when I look at him. In the meantime, I hope his face finds some nice dreams to haunt tonight.
Stay spooky, my friends.
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