February 2nd is Groundhog Day. The groundhog is an American rodent also known as a woodchuck. They are found from Alaska to Georgia, mostly north and east of the Missouri River. Tradition holds if he comes out of his hole and sees his shadow there will be six more weeks of “winter” weather. I, for one, am all for it. In Texas (and thanks to climate change) it is pizza oven hot almost all year round now. While the rodent is unique to North America, celebrating February 2nd as a holiday is not. Its origins are rooted in Christian tradition dating back to at least the 11th century. This day was formerly known as Candlemas, the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple. On this day all the candles to be used in church for the next year were brought to be blessed. Not only did churches require a lot of candles, many viewed them as religiously significant in that Christ is the light of the world. This day was not chosen at random; it is the midway point between the winter and spring equinox. Over time, regions and nations developed traditions about weather predictions for the remainder of winter. Often these were tied to hibernating animals such as hedgehogs, bears, and badgers. Although the most famous North American groundhog is Pennsylvania’s Punxsutawney Phil, other groundhog forecasters include Alabama’s Birmingham Bill, Georgia’s General Beauregard Lee, Ohio’s Buckeye Chuck, Michigan’s Murray, Virginia’s French Creek Freddie, and, my personal favorite, Louisiana’s Pierre C. Shaddeaux. There is an old rhyme that says:
“If Candlemas Day be fair and bright, Winter will have another fight;
But if Candlemas Day be clouds and rain, Winter is gone, and will not come again.”
We have friends who started the best tradition years ago of having a Groundhog Day party. Kids are safe to roam about, corny dogs are served, and adults relax and visit with each other over wine or beer. I really look forward to it every year. I was so happy to see this groundhog on their mantle for the occasion, as we gave it to them the first time we were invited. We are blessed to have fellowship with church friends and I wish to thank them for their gracious hospitality. I also want to thank Ernest Blevins, an historical columnist, for the interesting information. Happy Groundhog Day!
