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May 2nd, 3rd, 2008 |
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Copyright © 2008 Steve Newcomer/Prairie Fire Productions |
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History of Th’ May Tree On May-eve it was long the custom of the Celts to go into the forest and cut a tree that was budding and bring it into the village, erect it, and adorn it with flowers and ribbons. The intention of the custom was to bring home to the village the blessings which the tree-spirit has in its power to bestow. The forests belonged to the king, the custom was also to show the king that the trees really belonged to the people, and they could take them whenever they decided to do so.
The Aos Dana particularly liked the latter tradition. So for the first two years of the festival, they went to the State Park lands south of town and cut the May Tree. Then it was discussed that since trees have such a difficult time growing on the wind swept high plains, we should not be cutting them, rather we should be nurturing and planting them. Each year when it came time to decorate the new May Tree, there were those that were not present, for they had completed their circle since the last Gatherin. The tying of the ribbons took on new significance to the Aos Dana, the ribbons had names and memories. Thus a new tradition took form. Now each year when the May Tree is planted, it is adorned with ribbons, tartans, and totems, bearing the names of those that have completed their circle of life since the last “Gatherin”.
As it has always been, so many friends, neighbors, and kinsmen have crossed to “The Mist Covered Mountains of Home”, since the last “Gatherin”. We invite you to join us at High Noon, Saturday, May 3rd for the Blessings of the May Tree. We will honor the memories of our loved ones, and rejoice and give thanks for the many blessings bestowed on us since the last “Gatherin”.
If you have a loved one that completed their circle this year, feel free to add their name and ribbon to the May Tree. If unable to attend this year, let us know and we will prepare a ribbon and place it on the tree. The ribbons are left on the tree, until the Four Winds carry them away. |
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Jack Wilson’s wife Verelene, granddaughters Anna & Audra Berquist, brother-in-law Bob Funk, and Jack’s dog Riley preparing to dig the 2006 May Tree. |
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Celebrating the memories of those that have Crossed since Th’ Last Gatherin’.
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Light a candle in memory of Loved One’s here. |