Discussion»Statements»Rosie's Corner» Rednecks get red necks from sunburn. What about the rest of the body? Why not redface redhand redarm redfoot? Why just redneck?
I believe the sunburnt neck is how the term came about. Working on a farm you neck is exposed more than just being outside...so many times just your neck is burnt and not your face....often have a hat on for shade etc. As for red foot etc....we wear clothes. Just think of working in your garden. Out there with your shovel/hoe, you are bent over with your neck exposed and face to the ground. And unusally trying to prevent the sunburn was done with the old red bandanna.
I worked on a farm for two years back in the 80s so guess I would have qualified then. But being I can't recall any northerners (as I am) being called that back then. Though now some northerners like to refer to themselves as that. I do garden and jog and sometimes walk outside so do still get some sun - enough to tan lightly naturally in summer.
B.H.Wilson 