Hoodoo in Atlanta

This last weekend was a relaxing one. I went out on a research trip to Atlanta (in Demon Central for those who’ve read the Demon Trappers series), had a luncheon date with the spouse and did a lot of reading. Given that it rained on Sunday, that worked just fine.

First — why was I in Atlanta? I live outside of town so I get downtown every now and then. We took the train (MARTA) down and then worked our way out of Five Points Station. It’s kinda like a concrete maze. South of the station on Broad Street is Miller’s Rexall. It’s been there since 1965. Besides the usual supply of medicinal products, Miller’s has a side business in magic ephemera. In particular — Hoodoo supplies.
Hoodoo (not to be confused with Voodoo which is a religion) is based on African American folk magic. It was brought over by the slaves and has found itself a niche. Conjure, as it’s sometimes called, is used for a variety of reasons: to summon good luck, to turn away evil, to find love. Since Hoodoo is featured in BRIAR ROSE (my next book)  I trudged into Miller’s not quite knowing what I was going to find. That’s when I met Ms. Beverly (a sweet and intuitive woman who seems to look inside your very soul) and the owner himself, Richard Miller. We chatted about folk magic and other topics. While I was browsing the shelves, a steady stream of folks came in to buy stuff ranging from lottery tickets to dressing oils.

I came home with a book and some supplies and their fabulous catalog since the store caters to various folk traditions. I was pleased to see a store that catered to what their customers want. Chain stores have lost that focus.
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Now I have more books to read and more research to do. All in in all a fine weekend. So what is your typical weekend like?

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