What does this mean - pick the switch???

[~*Belle 2003*~]

It's been mentioned on the smacking thread a couple of times now. What does it mean though?

The worst was being sent out to the yard and picking the switch.
& ...they had to go out and pick their switch.

I keep seeing light switches but I know that's not right!!!

 

[Bob Slydell]

A switch is an old term to describe a type of stick, typically used to whip someone.

 

[~*Belle 2003*~]

That was quick response - thanks Steve/Bob!

 

[NMAmy]

My mother used to have to go outside and pick a branch off the lilac bush when she was a child. And if she picked too flimsy a branch, she'd get more smacks. She lived with my great-grandmother and she was a tough old lady--she was in her 80's when I knew her and I would never have dreamed of misbehaving around her. She was very sweet (in fact we called her Grandma Honey) but you didn't want to get on her wrong side!

 

[~*Belle 2003*~]

Originally posted by NMAmy
My mother used to have to go outside and pick a branch off the lilac bush when she was a child. And if she picked too flimsy a branch, she'd get more smacks. She lived with my great-grandmother and she was a tough old lady--she was in her 80's when I knew her and I would never have dreamed of misbehaving around her. She was very sweet (in fact we called her Grandma Honey) but you didn't want to get on her wrong side!

I love lilac but not for that purpose!!!

 

[LScot]

My DH used to have to go get his own. I can't remember what kind of tree but not a lilac bush.
He said once, and only once, he picked a pretty skinny branch and it hurt far worse than a thicker one!
Very common years ago around here.