Wreaths: An unspoken greeting

The word wreath comes from the old English word “writhen,” meaning “to writhe” or “to twist.” Wreaths come in all shapes and sizes, simple or adorned. They are generally made from an assortment of branches, vines, leaves, flowers, twigs or other natural materials that are constructed to form a circle.

Early drawings in Greco-Roman society show wreath crowns and headdresses. It is believed the wreath originated there, where handcrafted, ring-shaped decorations called “coronas” were made from fresh leaves, branches, twigs, fruits and flowers. They were commonly hung on doors in ancient Greece and Rome as a symbol of victory. They were also displayed at funerals to represent the circle of eternal life.

For many, wreaths made of evergreens are associated with Christmas, a practice that probably originated with European Christians who made wreaths from the parts of the Christmas tree that were trimmed off to avoid waste. Tabletop Advent wreaths were made, in addition to wreaths hung on doors and mantels.

In Germany and some Scandinavian countries, people make wreaths to celebrate Jul (or Yule), the return of the sun and the cycle of the seasons. The greenery and natural materials of wreaths represent nature and the promise of new life that comes with spring.

"God Jul" is the Norwegian term for Merry Christmas. Holidays in the Nordic countries are a way to lift spirits and bring joy to a cold and dark place where the sun only shines for a few hours each day in December.

Similar to Jul celebrations, some people hang harvest wreaths on their doors, a symbol of preparing for the harsh winter season and bringing good fortune to their crops. Herb wreaths are said to protect a home from diseases and evil.

Today, wreaths are a common adornment on doors in all seasons of the year, an unspoken greeting and enduring sign of warmth and openness.