Frequently Asked Questions

1) What is Hashing?
2) Who started Hashing?
3) What does Hash refer to?
4) Will you sell me some hash?
5) What do I need to join the Hash?
6) How do I "win" the Hash?
7) Can I bring my children to the Hash?
8) Can I bring my dog to the Hash?
9) Who is in charge of the Hash? 
10) WHat can I expect at a Hash? 
11) Where can I find the Hash?
12) Who goes to the Hash?
13) Why does everyone have an odd nickname?
14) How do I get a Hash Name?
15) I'm going somewhere. Is there a Hash there?

1) What is Hashing?  Hashing is a non-competative sport loosely based on the children's games of Hares & Hounds and Paper Chase.  Basically, one or more participants (called Hares) leave a trail which may consist of flour, chalk, paper, or other biodegradable materials.  This trail (refrred to as the Trail) may be on streets, across fields, up mountains, over bridges, through buildings....basically anywhere.  The rest of the participants (called Hounds) then follow the Trail with the dual goals of catching the Hares and getting to the end of the Trail (called the On-In).  Only the Hares know where the end of the Trail will be, and they may utilize a variety of "tools" to slow down the Hounds, such as leaving false trails or arranging for beer to be found (and consumed) by the Hounds...called, appropriately enough, a Beer Check.

2) Who started Hashing?  Hashing was started by a group of British expatriots: Cecil H. Lee, E.J. Galvin, H.M. Doig and A.S. Gispert.  A.S. Gispert (or "G" as he is referred to today) is generally accepted to be the father of the Hash. 

3) What does Hash refer to?  Hash is the the nickname for the Hash House Harriers and also refers to a gathering of Hashers with the intent to enjoy a Trail.  Hash is an old British slang word for boring or bland food.  Establishments who served this type of food were commonly referred to as Hash Houses.  The original Hash House Harriers took their name after the Royal Sengalor Club in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia where the intrepid bunch met for beer and relaxation.  The Sengalor's food was especially uninspired, earning it the unofficial designation of Hash House.  Today, Hash House is the nickname given to a local Hash club.
Contrary to the modern definition of "hash", the Hash House Harriers name and activities are not based on drug use.

4) Will you sell me some hash?  No. See #3.

5) What do I need to join the Hash?  The most common answer to this question is "a Half of a Mind."  In other words, we get together to unwind and forget about the troubles of the week...we don't spend too much time in deep thought at the Hash.  If you are seeking political discourse or engaging social commentary, you will not find it at the Hash...although you may find Hashers quite skilled at debating these topics.  We just try to leave the serious stuff at home while we are Hashing.  Other than your Half Mind, you should bring a whistle, a pair of comfortable walking or running shoes, and clothing appropriate for the weather.

6) How do you win the Hash? You can't.  The Hash is a non-competative activity.  If you try to "win" you will be ridiculed, and most likely punished with a cold beer (or non-alcoholic beverage of your choice).  Much like the German Volkswalks, Hashing is more about getting a bit of exercise in a social atmosphere than it is about competing and training for athletic events. 

7) Can I bring my children to the Hash?  Most American Hashes are geared toward adults, with mature humor and language.  They may also congregate or visit establishments which do not permit minors or children, such as bars.  If you are going to the Hash for the first time, it is best to leave the children at home until you can see things for yourself.  Some Hashes are more family-oriented and do not engage in activities which are inappropriate for minors and children.  Typically, these Hashes refer to themselves as Family Hashes.  Again, it is best to ask first and err on the side of caution if unsure.

8) Can I bring my dog to the Hash?  Some Hares lay trails across terrain which is suitable for an active dog to enjoy.  Other Hares may not.  It is best to check with the organizers and Hares before EACH TRAIL, as conditions, length, and locations vary from week-to-week.  This week's Hash may feature a dog-friendly Trail, while next week's involves stopping at a pub or two where dogs are not welcome.  Much like with children and minors, it is best to ask first and err on the side of caution.  If the Trail is dog-friendly, please ensure that your dog is equally Hash-friendly.  You dog should be comfortable and non-aggressive around strangers and other dogs, in good shape, and under control at all times.

9) Who is in charge of the Hash?  There is no national or international governing body which oversees Hash events.  There are, however a variety of websites (like this one)devoted toward sharing information between local groups.  Each local group has it's own management structure, often refferred to as the Mismanagement.  The Mismanagement consists of volunteers who help see to the behind-the-scenes stuff, such as scheduling, collecting money, buying beer, and basically keeping the Hash going from one week to the next.  Specific questions or concerns regarding an individual group should be referred that that group's Mismanagement.  Points of contact for local groups in Texas and the surrounding states are provided for you convenience on the Hash Finder page. 

10) WHat can I expect at a Hash?  At the very least, you can expect to find a Hare, a pack of Hounds, and a Trail which may last several miles.  After the Trail, most Hash groups get together for some beer and camaraderie, called the Circle or Religion.  This may involve a few toasts, singing bawdy songs, and lively discussion about the Trail.  Some Circles are elaborate affairs with a set of rituals which last an hour or more while others consist of a few minutes of less-regimented socializing. Traditions and customs vary from one Hash House to the next, and what is acceptable at one House may not be acceptable at another.  Be warned, the language and activities at some American Circles may be inappropriate for children or those who are easily offended.  Much like #7, it is best to ask someone ahead of time.  If for any reason you find a Hash not to your liking, you are under no obligation to stay or return.  However, you should keep an open mind as no two Trails are alike and each Hash House has a style and attittude all its own...you may just find the next trail to be a lot of fun or another Hash House's traditions and atmosphere to be more your style!

11) Where can I find the Hash?  Hash Houses can be found in almost every major city in the world, and a lot of minor one's too!  Just like in the early 20th Century, Hashing spreads through word of mouth.  Chances are someone you know is a Hasher or you overheard someone talking about hashing, which is what led you to find this website.  This website can help you locate a local House House in Texas and the surrounding states using our Hash Locator page..  The websites on our Links page can help you find a local Hash House almost anywhere in the world. 

12) Who goes to the Hash?  People from all walks of life go to the Hash.  Doctors, lawyers, diplomats, corporate officers, military members, students, painters, factory workers, bus drivers, computer programmers, pilots, bartenders, waitstaff, civil servants, moms, dads, clergy, counselors...pretty much anyone and everyone you can think of!  The only real requirement is the ability to at least walk a mile or two over varied terrain and an open mind toward new experiences and people.

13) Why does everyone have an odd nickname?  You must mean their Hash Name.  Veteran Hashers are awarded a Hash Name by a local hash, and this name ususally sticks with them for the rest of their life.  Until then, hashers are stuck being referred to as "Just Bill" (if their name is Bill) or "Just Suzy" (if their name is Suzy).  Be warned!  You do not get to pick your own Hash Name and the name you get may not be very pretty.  On the plus side, a Hash Name gives you a little annonymity...allowing you to relax and try new things (i.e. embarrass yourself) without word getting around!  It is also a point of pride for many Hashers...much like earning a Letterman jacket in high school or finally getting an assigned parking space at work...it means you have arrived!  

14) How do I get a Hash Name?  This varies.  Some local groups give new members (often called Virgins) a name after completing five Trails.  Others wait until you do something, say something, or they learn something about you which warrants giving a name...such as naming the new veterinarian "Doggie Style."  Still other groups name you whenever they get around to it...which in some places could take years! 

15) I'm going somewhere. Is there a Hash there?  Most likely there is at least one group close to your destination.  In fact, if you contact the local Hash closest to your destination, you may find them willing to show you around the area and even take you into their homes if you need a place to stay.  Being a hasher often means you have thousands of friends across the globe that you just haven't met yet!