Trivia of the Month (Answer)...

This month’s question was what is a hex sign?  To quote my source:

A hex sign is an emblem painted on a barn, especially in the regions of southeastern Pennsylvania settled by German immigrants.  Usually round, with colorful, simple floral and geometric motifs, they are said to protect farm animals from misfortunes resulting from witches’ spells and especially from the evil eye.

The question (and answer) were found on p. 427 of The Encyclopedia of World Religions.  The book was published in 1999 by Merriam-Webster.