River water in folk magic: Pittsburgh

In folk magic, river water is often utilized in cleansing and healing work. I’m fortunate to live near a uniquely powerful source that springs from an uncommon place: the center of the city.

Rivers have always played an important role in Appalachian life. Of course, they were vital to their communities, providing drinking water, plant and animal life, fertile land, and transportation. They were highly interconnected with cultural practices.

Traditionally, in order to properly harness the properties of free-flowing (“living”) river water, it could not be stored. This is why rivers have customarily been used in baptism rituals, not only due to the biblical significance (Jesus was baptized on the banks of the Jordan River) but because of the literal and spiritual cleansing power of natural, moving water.

If you’re near southwestern PA, you may have heard stories about Pittsburgh’s “fourth river.” Also known as the Wisconsin Glacial Flow, this river is actually an underground aquifer created by Ice Age glaciers that once scoured the landscape. The tunnel-like body of rock holds groundwater and is separated from the rivers above by a layer of clay.

Historically, the aquifer has been accessed as a clean alternative to the rivers, and while you can’t sit on its banks, it’s often very visible in pictures and videos of Greater Pittsburgh. Located at the confluence of the city’s three rivers, it powers the fountain at Point State Park.

As usual, rivers often carry special properties based on their location and lore. So…is the ‘fourth river’ considered true river water? I personally feel it’s a unique spirit with attributes of purification at a slower but enduring rate, plus an abundance of the qualities I often associate with this region of Appalachia. I was able to collect a jar during a visit this weekend for ritual (though it still isn’t water I’d ingest or use in cosmetics).

It’s hard to believe we’re about a month from Michaelmas, which has always felt like a harbinger of fall. I’ve been away a little more often, working on my herbs, canning, etc. for the cooler months, but so ready for things to slow down.