Matrilineal Monday: Elizabeth Longanecker

The first section of the Gutenberg Bible was published today in 1452. That got me thinking of this most unusual family record I have from an old family bible. The Longanecker Family listed their births with some information that I have never seen elsewhere.

Elizabeth Longanecker, as is seen above, was born on 11 March 1826 "in the sign of the orphan(?) between the hours of 1 and 2 o'clock in the morning."

What on earth is the sign of the orphan? At first I thought it had to do with the zodiac. If it does though, it is not the traditional zodiac. For example, Susannah Longanecker was born 15 November 1828 "in the sign of the fish". The sign of the fish in the traditional zodiac however I would think it would be Pisces, which is late February/early March. By traditional zodiac dates, Susannah would be right on the cusp of a Libra or a Scorpio, with the 15th being the last day of the Libra. Elizabeth however would be a Pisces - the fish! Another entry shows Fannyan Longanecker as being born in the sign of the watermelon on 11 August 1832.

Just a note about Elizabeth:
She married John H Eckman (b 25 August 1826). They lived in Lancaster County, PA.

They had eight children:
1. Aldus John Eckman <-- hubby's great grandfather
2. Clayton L Eckman
3. Emma Louise Eckman
4. Gideon G Eckman
5. Edward M Eckman
6. Jefferson F Eckman
7. Mary Elizabeth Eckman
8. William A Eckman

RECORD:
The above photo is of a copy of the record given me by a cousin who had the family bible.

REQUEST FOR INFO:
I am trying still to determine what the "signs" stand for. Any information or leads would be most appreciated. Thank you!

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