The Clurichaun, The Leprechaun’s Booze-Loving Cousin
Public DomainAn illustration of a clurichaun in T. C. Croker’s Fairy Legends and Traditions of the South of Ireland.
Often confused with the leprechaun, the clurichaun of Irish mythology is a small, mischievous bearded sprite who, like his more famous relative, lives a solitary existence. However, there is one key difference between the two: The clurichaun loves to drink.
Unlike the leprechaun, who makes his home in forests and secluded natural areas, the clurichaun can be found in breweries, pubs, and wine cellars — basically, anywhere alcohol can be found.
According to folklore, clurichauns emerge from their hiding places after dark to indulge in their favorite pastime — drinking. They will go to great lengths to gain access to a well-stocked cellar. Once inside, they will drink their fill, often leaving behind a trail of empty bottles and drunken revelry.
However, despite their love for the drink, clurichauns are not necessarily malevolent creatures. In fact, like many other fairy folk, clurichauns can be quite helpful to those who treat them with respect. Some folk tales say that clurichauns will protect a home’s supply of alcohol from theft and spoilage — in exchange, of course, for a regular offering of a glass or two.
That said, if a clurichaun should feel slighted or disrespected, it can become quite mischievous and possibly destructive. It may turn your milk sour, cause your family or livestock to become sick, or wreak havoc in the cellar. It goes without saying, then, that it’s in your best interest to appease a clurichaun, should one appear in your cellar.
While clurichauns don’t get the same name recognition as their less booze-obsessed counterparts, these tiny Irish folklore creatures do serve as a reminder to enjoy the pleasures of life in moderation and to treat all creatures — even troublesome ones — with respect.
