An Ancient Tradition Continues

By Joe Bullick

The New Year is well underway, and here comes February, usually the coldest month of the year.  However, there is a warm side to it—St. Valentine’s Day.  Every February across the country, candy, flowers and gifts are exchanged between loved ones.

But who is this mysterious man from whom we derive this holiday?  One legend contends that he was a priest who served during the third century in Rome.  Others suggest that Valentine may have been martyred for helping Christians to escape from Roman prisons. 

According to one legend, he sent the first “Valentine.”   While imprisoned, he fell in love with a young girl who visited him during his confinement before his execution.  It is believed that she may have been his jailor’s daughter.  Allegedly, he wrote her a letter and signed it: “From Your Valentine.”  This expression is still in use today. 

In 496 A.D., Pope Gelasius set aside February 14 as a feast day to honor St. Valentine.  His day has become known for exchanging love messages and gifts such as flowers and candy. 

Two industries play a huge role in this holiday—the floral and greeting card industries. Mass-produced Valentines were introduced in the 1800s.  Miss Esther Howland is given credit for sending the first commercial Valentine card.  Before that, homemade ones were exchanged. Valentine’s Day is the second-largest card exchanging occasion of the year, with Christmas being the first.

Florists are very busy on Valentine’s Day.  McCandless Floral, located at 8105 Perry Highway, has been in business for 31 years and their busiest month is December, their busiest week is Mother’s Day, and their busiest day is Valentine’s Day. 

This Valentine’s Day take a loved one or friend out to dinner or give them a box of candy or a dozen of roses.  And don’t forget to continue the tradition that began centuries ago by sending a card signed, “From Your Valentine.”

Happy Valentine’s Day to all.

Special thanks to American Greetings for the above information.

Back to top

Joe welcomes any ideas, suggestions or interesting stories.
Email him at northcon@nauticom.net. Please put "Town Crier" in the subject line of your email.

To contact Joe to schedule an appointment to tour his museum at McKnight Elementary School, call the Northern Connection office at (724) 940-2444 or email northcon@nauticom.net. Please put "Museum Tour" in the subject line.

Back to top