Pineapples Mean Welcome Friends!

Pineapple and Southern hospitality go hand in hand. Come on in and let’s visit is what the pineapples found at the front door means here in the South, that’s southern hospitality! I have always had an affinity for pineapples. I love to eat them, decorate with them, and at times I even wear them.

I didn’t realize how much of a pineapple lover I am. Until a few days ago, I had stepped outside to have a few photo shots taken before leaving for the day. Later, I downloaded the photos onto my computer. Much to my surprise, I am standing with a pineapple in the middle of my top. There is also pineapple pillows on the rockers and the pineapple porch light. As I looked around, I saw many more pineapples all around. So what’s with the Pineapple?

Now, the more I work with the photos, the more I am aware of the pineapples surrounding me. My interest is aroused as to how  Pineapples became so popular here in the South.

Time to Google.

• Christopher Columbus not only discovered America, but he also found the precious pineapple. When he and his men landed on the island of Guadalupe, they were served their first taste of the sweet fruit by the natives.  It was not only delicious but nutritious. An excellent food source aboard ship for the sailors who were often plagued with scurvy on the long sea voyages. He brought it back to Europe when he returned in 1493.

• In the 1400s there was no natural sugar cane in Europe, and sweets were an expensive treat. The pineapple was exotic, sweet, and expensive—a real treasure.

• It took nearly 200 years for the pineapple to be cultivated in the greenhouses in Europe. The pineapple-shaped, like a pinecone and firm like an apple, was a hot commodity in the 1600s.

• This precious pineapple was so expensive it was considered a food of kings.

  

•  Universally, the Pineapple symbolizes hospitality and is in many hotels throughout the world. It is a significant decorating symbol. You will find it the architecture of buildings, fountains, gates, and doors. Today the pineapple motif is one of the most popular decorating symbols around. The fountain in this picture is in the main lobby at the Hammock Beach Resort in Palm Coast, Florida.

This small crystal pineapple is a souvenir gift from the Westin Hotel in Kauai many years ago. Hawaiian souvenir? I have seen huge fields in Hawaii. So how did the pineapple come to be all over the South? 

Many different displays of this tropical fruit can be seen in the foyers and entryway of homes primarily in the South and along the eastern seaboard.

Some Interesting Stories

• In the early days of America long before the internet, visiting was the primary form of entertainment. The concept of hospitality was born. Bringing guests into the home was the mainstay of entertainment. The ladies of the house would get creative with their food displays. It was a way of showing the family’s means. Very competitive indeed. The dining rooms were closed off during the early part of the evening. The table would be set with fantasy-like scenes. Pedestaled and tiered foods. Floral arrangements and fine china on a long-serving table. Perched at the very top of this mountain of culinary delights would be the pineapple. There would be the moment of unveiling. The doors would open, and the evening began.  Many times if the hostess were pinching her pennies, she would rent the pineapple and return after the festivities were over.

• Back in colonial times, the captains of the trading ships upon returning from their travels would place the fresh fruit outside on their doors, porches, or fence gates. This is a sign to his friends and neighbors that he has returned home safely. They are welcome to come to visit and spend time at home. The pineapple outside is a sign of welcome and southern hospitality

Boring or interesting?  Pineapples and Southern hospitality What do you think? I know I will continue to enjoy collecting pineapples and welcoming friends.

Fashion note for you gals: My top is a gift from my daughter-in-law. She knows me well. It’s Tommy Bahama. The other pieces have been in previous posts. Shorts and vest – Chico’s. Purse – Vince Camuto from Dillards.

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Remember to have fun-loving and living life to it’s fullest!

Rosemary

ps: As always all creative and opinions are my own.