Seems we are all a bit Irish on March 17th, but if you are not versed in the traditions of the Emerald Isle, you may feel left out while friends and family spin tales around the symbols of the day. Thanks to History.com, here are a few fun facts to casually drop into a conversation while sipping a Guinness or an Irish Coffee tomorrow.
The Shamrock
The shamrock (originally dubbed the “seamroy” by the Celts) symbolized the rebirth of spring. In the 17th century, it became a symbol of Irish nationalism and was worn as a symbol of pride by the Irish who were displeased with English rule. Some say it was used by St. Patrick himself as a way to describe the Christian concept of the Trinity when he brought the religion to the Celtic people.
The Leprechaun
In Celtic folklore, leprechauns were cranky little fairies who were responsible for mending the shoes of other mythical fairies. One legend of the leprechaun says that when the Danes plundered Ireland, they left their gold under the watchful eye of the mythical little elf. And so, if you can catch him, he will be forced to tell you where the gold is hidden. But be careful—to keep him from disappearing, you have to hold his gaze and this master of mischief will use all of his tricks to make you look away. And when you do—poof, he is gone!
Corned Beef and Cabbage
Irish immigrants living in the lower east side of New York City are responsible for this one. In an attempt to save money in the late 1800s, the immigrants substituted corned beef in their traditional dish of Irish bacon and cabbage—a less expensive alternative they learned from their Jewish neighbors.
Go to History.com to read more about St. Patrick and the holiday named in his honor. Here at Lois Schneider Realtor, we will be wearing our green and exchanging recipes for Irish soda bread and Shepherd’s Pie–and if you are looking for more than a bit of “the luck of the Irish” when it comes to buying or selling your home, stop by and see us at our office at 431 Springfield Avenue in Summit, New Jersey. We’ll provide you with the expert advice and service you’re looking for—no blarney!
Share your favorite St. Patrick’s Day Traditions with us—we would love to hear your comments!
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