Mistletoe has a long history in folklore and legend going as far back as the Druids who deemed it to have magical healing powers and to be a token of peace. At York Minster during the Middle Ages, a branch of mistletoe was laid on the altar during the Twelve Days of Christmas and a public peace proclaimed in the city for as long as it remained there.Christmas Ivy
In Oxfordshire, England, a 17th century custom held that if maidservants asked a man to bring ivy for Christmas decoration and he did not, they were allowed to nail a pair of his breeches to the gate and to deny him the "well-known privilege of the mistletoe."
The World Encyclopedia of CHRISTMAS, McClelland & Stewart Ltd., 2000.
In Oxfordshire, England, a 17th century custom held that if maidservants asked a man to bring ivy for Christmas decoration and he did not, they were allowed to nail a pair of his breeches to the gate and to deny him the "well-known privilege of the mistletoe."
The World Encyclopedia of CHRISTMAS, McClelland & Stewart Ltd., 2000.
Original Post cards: 1912 & 1916.
