Photo Credit: Wikimedia
Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in January 2021.
In late December 2020, a social media post sent shockwaves across the internet, suggesting that homes adorned with five-pointed stars were secret signals for “swingers,” a term often associated with couples who engage in partner swapping. However, our investigation uncovered no concrete evidence to support this claim. The roots of this rumor trace back to a 2007 post on the StrippersOnline message board, according to an article published by Distractify, a news and entertainment site.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia
These stars, specifically the five-pointed metal ones that sometimes grace homes, are more commonly recognized as barn stars or, colloquially, “Amish barn stars.” While they indeed carry significance, it has nothing to do with residents being swingers. The Ontario, Canada-based news outlet, The Voice, reported that these stars are most commonly found on the homes of Pennsylvania Dutch families. The Pennsylvania Dutch, an American cultural group that originated from southern Germany and settled in the United States, hold these stars dear as symbols of tradition and heritage.!!
Photo Credit: Wikimedia
It’s essential to dispel baseless rumors and focus on the true cultural and historical context of symbols like the barn star. In doing so, we can appreciate and celebrate the diverse traditions and meanings that make up the rich tapestry of American culture without falling for unfounded myths. The barn star, a symbol of heritage and good fortune, continues to shine brightly without any hidden, salacious connotations.
Sources: Snopes
