Nisse

The nisse (Danish/Norwegian) or tomte (Swedish) was believed to be the spirit of the farm's original settler, bound to the land and its animals. He required a bowl of porridge with butter on Christmas Eve. Neglect this offering, use his name carelessly, or mistreat the farm animals, and he would sour milk, tangle hair, pinch sleeping family members, and ultimately leave — taking the farm's luck with him.

A small, stout, bearded man in grey or red clothing with a pointed red cap. He was rarely seen directly, being shy and nocturnal. His footprints in the snow near the barn were the most common evidence of his presence.

Could make cows produce more milk, ensure good harvests, and protect the farm from misfortune. When angered, he spoiled food, startled horses, moved tools, and made animals sick.