Yesterday night
when I spoke to a friend, I happened to talk about Royal Oak Apple Day. After I told her about it, she said “Wow! In my area, we celebrate Nettle
Day tomorrow!” I couldn’t help but let out a small laugh
as they are both the same with just different names! The Royal Oak Apple Day is known
by several names in different areas, like The Nettles Day, The Pinch-bum Day, The
Shick Shack Day etc.
On May 29th,
1660, King Charles II returned to London
after a narrow escape from the capture of Cromwell's soldiers by hiding in an
oak tree. Ever since, people celebrated the restoration of the monarchy by
wearing Oak apples or Oak leaves. You would be surprised to know that until the
twentieth century, anyone caught not wearing an oak leaf or oak apple on this day
was pinched, kicked, or otherwise abused. Whipping with nettles was also one of
the favourite punishments and hence the several names. While most people still
wear something oak-ey, I am really glad that the abuse part has been omitted!
Wish you all a very Happy Royal Oak Apple Day!
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