St. Patrick's Day Symbols and Traditions

Have you ever wondered about the meaning behind the greeting

"Erin go bragh"

 that we often see on St. Patrick's Day?

The meaning is "Ireland for ever."  

The Irish immigrated to America

to escape poverty, disease and English oppression.

But coming to America was not a joyful event

because they knew they would never see Ireland again.

Although those who came loved America

 and described it as a land of opportunity,

they never gave up their allegiance to Ireland.

The postcards I am sharing today are not part of a series.
They were selected for this post
because they have several things in common. 

First, all depict a scene of the Irish countryside.
These cards would have been printed for the American market.  One Irish American would have sent the postcard to another
to refresh memories of their home land.

Second, the cards are rich in symbols.
St. Patrick brought Christianity to Ireland
and the shamrock plant was used
to explain the Holy Trinity.

Four-leaf clovers are also shown
and it is thought that finding one of these rare plants
leads to extremely good luck.
Each leaf of a four-leaf clover brings a different blessing:
hope, faith, love and happiness.

Clay pipes, called Dúidíns,  were manufactured
in the village of Knockcroghery, Ireland  for over 300 years.
Both men and women smoked the pipes
and they were an important part of an Irish wake ceremony.
The pipe was an inexpensive luxury for the poor
and demonstrated they had sufficient food
to be able to enjoy something extra in their life.

The color green became the national color
because of the green landscape that results
from the plentiful rain and mist that Ireland experiences.
Because of these lush landscapes,
Ireland was bestowed the nickname,
"Emerald Isle".

Antique Postcard from my Personal Collection
Postmarked Minnesota March 4, 1910

Antique Postcard from my Personal Collection
Postally Unused

Antique Postcard from my Personal Collection
Postally Unused

Antique Postcard from My Personal Collection
Postmarked Traverse City, Michigan March 18, 1912

St. Patrick's Day was traditionally a religious holiday commemorating the death of St. Patrick.

St. Patrick's Day as we now know it

with parades and celebrations was created in America

by Irish-Americans seeking to create bonds

within their Irish immigrant communities.

Until next time, live and love well.

Joining the Festivities at:

St. Patricks Day Party at A Holiday Haven

St. Patrick's Day Blessings at Scribbleprints

The Bunny Hop at Bunny Jean's Decor and More

Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home

St. Patricks Day Blogging Carnival 2012 by Janmary

This forum reveals random thoughts and reflections on topics of interest and events impacting the life of the founder of Doll in the Looking Glass.  Our boutique specializes in custom designed dolls that look like your child. We also design toddler and baby dolls that look real using vinyl doll components manufactured in Midland, Michigan USA by Apple Valley Doll Works.  The goal of Doll in the Looking Glass is to delight our customers with our creations.  We would love to create a special doll for you!