It Makes No Never Mind

by James Nalley

By the time of this publication, the Christmas season will be in full force and Mainers will be continuing their holiday traditions in light of such a volatile year. One of these traditions is Christmas wreath making. Dating back to the earliest settlers from mainland Europe, particularly the Germans, the creation of these aromatic Christmas decorations from Maine’s evergreens has been a regular holiday mainstay. In fact, with the growing attention on skilled local artisans throughout the state, an increasing number of shoppers across the country are skipping the cheaper, mass-produced wreaths at department stores for these genuine works of art handmade from fresh balsam fir.

Although there are numerous wreath -making companies, ranging from those in Down East villages (e.g., Wreaths of Maine and Maine Wreaths, Inc.) to small towns in Aroostook County (e.g., Wreaths by Natalie, Aroostook County Wreaths, and Down on the Farm Maine Wreaths) and Washington County (Worcester Wreath Co.), the stories are similar. Central Maine Wreath is another prime example. Founded more than 40 years ago in Skowhegan, Ambrose “Tom” McCarthy was one of the first to design fresh handmade wreaths. According to the company, “With the owner Tom McCarthy on-site overseeing all aspects of daily activities, his sister Phyllis in the factory managing the production, and the second generation in the offices and in the retail store, you will see and know who handles your order from beginning to end.”

As for the wreaths themselves, their most well-known meaning is related to Christmas and Christianity, as their circular shape is said to represent eternal life and the unending love of God. Traditionally made of evergreens, the thorny leaves of the holly oak, and red berries, the latter two symbolize the crown of thorns worn by Jesus and the drops of blood that it drew. Although traditional Pagan wreaths were also evergreen circles, they included four candles, representing the elements of Earth, wind, fire, and water. Their wreaths were typically used in rituals that would ensure the continuance of the circle of life. However, for most people, the wreaths are viewed as an invitation to the spirit of Christmas to enter the home and bring good luck to everyone within, despite the winter chills.Interestingly, there are certain “twists” (pun-intended) to wreaths from around the world. In the European Alps, wreaths are made with lavender to represent friendship and connections to those lost, while in Poland, Christmas wreaths are made of straw/hay, as a reminder of the Christmas manger. Then, there are the Dresden (Germany) ornament wreaths. Dating back to the late 1800s, they were originally made of old candy molds or brass ornaments. Still in circular form, the brass figurines represent the holidays and good fortune.

As many of you know, it has been my tradition to close with a theme-inspired jest. However, in light of the spirit of Christmas and to everyone affected by the turmoil of this previous year, I am reminded of Maya Angelou’s poem Amazing Peace, which stated: We shout with glorious tongues at the coming of hope. All the earth’s tribes loosen their voices to celebrate the promise of Peace. We, Angels and Mortals, Believers, and Non-Believers, Look heavenward and speak the word aloud. Peace. We look at our world and speak the word aloud. Peace. We look at each other, then into ourselves, we say without shyness or apology or hesitation. Peace, My Brother. Peace, My Sister. Peace, My Soul.

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