Gonks: A Scottish Twist to Christmas Tradition

Gonks, with their hats snugly pulled down and their small round noses peeking out, strike a balance between Santa Claus and a garden gnome in their unique style.

While the exact origins of the Gonk remain somewhat shrouded in mystery these lovable creatures trace their roots back to the frosty realms of Nordic and Scandinavian mythology, where they emerged as a delightful blend of gnomes and hobgoblins, bringing joy and a touch of mischievous magic to households.

Legend has it that Gonks were drawn to cosy barns and snug homes during the chilly seasons. If treated with kindness and respect, these pint-sized guardians would bestow good luck upon the families they graced. However, woe betide those who dared to disregard the mighty little Gonk, as they were known to play tricks that could turn a peaceful homestead into chaos! This ancient tale serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of hospitality and warmth, a lesson woven deeply into the fabric of Scandinavian traditions.

The earliest written references to Gonks date back to the 1600s, although there are suggestions that these mischievous beings might have been causing trouble as far back as the 13th century. Over time, the practice of inviting Gonks into the home and pampering them with treats became an integral part of the winter festivities. It was customary for families to leave out bowls of porridge for these hungry little creatures, especially during the revered winter solstice.

Some enthusiasts trace the origins of Gonks to the mythical creatures known as "trows" in Orkney and Shetland folklore, which bear some resemblance to the modern-day Gonk.

Trows were nocturnal creatures said to venture out of their 'trowie knowes' when evening came and were known for entering households as the inhabitants slept. It was considered unlucky to catch sight of a trow, though lucky to hear one speaking. I'm not quite sure how that works in practice? Let's hope that they had loud voices!

Having a fondness for music, there are folktales of trows kidnapping musicians or luring them back to their dens. Some Shetland fiddle tunes are even said to have come to human fiddlers when they heard the trows playing, and are known as "Trowie Tunes".

In Celtic mythology, the winter solstice holds significant cultural and spiritual importance, marking a time of transition and rebirth. The folklore surrounding this period often features mythical beings associated with the changing seasons, serving as guardians of nature and heralds of new beginnings and with this in mind it's possible to see how gonks & trows find their place in this narrative, embodying the festive spirit and the magic of the winter season.

In Celtic mythology, the winter solstice holds significant cultural and spiritual importance, marking a time of transition and rebirth. The folklore surrounding this period often features mythical beings associated with the changing seasons, serving as guardians of nature and heralds of new beginnings and with this in mind it's possible to see how gonks & trows find their place in this narrative, embodying the festive spirit and the magic of the winter season.

We have two styles of Gonk here at ScotlandShop. Meet Magnus and Mungo....

We have two styles of Gonk here at ScotlandShop. Meet Magnus and Mungo....

Gonks add an adorable touch to any home whether perched on window sills, mantelpieces, bookshelves, or even as part of the dining table centrepiece and Magnus is the perfect Gonk for this. Gonks are also perfect for creating a festive scene under the tree. You could introduce a matching Christmas Tree Skirt for Magnus to sit on or sprinkle layers of cotton wool as snow around the base of your tree and nestle your Christmas gonks within it for an extra festive feel.

You can also bring your Christmas tree to life by hanging some charming gonks from its branches and Magnus' wee brother Mungo hangs beautifully from your Christmas tree, doors, cupboards or hooks.

Both Magnus and Mungo can be made in your choice of tartan with a ginger or white beard made from Shetland wool and are completed with a cute felted nose.

While Gonks are widely associated with the festive Christmas season, their appeal extends far beyond the winter months, making them a delightful addition to your home decor all year round. You now see designs tailored for various occasions including Halloween, Easter, Autumn, and Summer. While our gonks don't have seasonal outfits, with the option to have your gonk made in over 500 tartans it's the perfect way to create a Gonk for every occasion. Whether you're decking the halls for Christmas, adding a decorative touch to your home for Easter or simply want to show off your clan heritage year round, there's a tartan-clad Gonk ready to bring a touch of mythiscism to your space.