Why are jack-o'-lanterns made from pumpkins?

SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) — Jack-o'-lanterns are easily one of the most recognizable parts of Halloween, with their carved faces bringing cheer to every spooky celebration. But not everyone knows that pumpkins weren't always the de facto product of choice when it came to making the iconic decoration.But where did the first jack-o'-lanterns come from — and why did the switch to pumpkins happen? If you want to find out, then grab some Halloween candy and read the tale