A History of Valentine's Day

By Hilda M. Morrill

February 1, 2012

When buying flowers for your Valentine sweetheart this month, you may wonder, "Who started this tradition in the first place?"

Some historians believe that the holiday started in ancient times. Others say Valentine customs originated in England and France during the Middle Ages, when, halfway through the second month of the year (on February 14), birds searched for a mate.

For the millions of lovers who celebrate Valentine's Day, we share some more stories and tales of romance and love:

According to some Christian legends, Valentine's Day started in Rome. Roman Emperor Claudius II demanded that his male subjects remain unmarried. He believed his army would remain powerful if his warriors were single, since unmarried soldiers wouldn't stay home from battle to protect wives and families. But the courageous Saint Valentine secretly married people forbidden to wed, so the Emperor ordered his arrest. Valentine was beheaded on February 14, and would later be called the "patron saint of lovers." After his death, men and women honored Valentine each February 14, at feasts and festivals.

Romans called their goddess of love "Venus." Her favorite flower was the rose, and her son Cupid caused people to fall in love by piercing them with magic arrows. Doves were favored by Venus because the birds remained with the same mate for life.

In the Middle Ages, young men and women drew names from a bowl to see who their valentines would be. They wore the names on their sleeves for one week. Today, to "wear your heart on your sleeve" means that other people will know how you are feeling.

In Wales, wooden love spoons were carved and given as gifts on February 14. Hearts, keys and keyholes were favorite decorations on the spoons, and meant, "You unlock my heart!"

Whatever its origins, Valentine's Day on February 14 is recognized by many as a day of romance.

Roses, long the traditional Valentine's flower, have been joined by tulips, particularly red tulips, which have made a rapid rise in recent years as cut flowers of choice for Valentine's Day gifts.

Part of the reason may be the increased role that supermarkets and mass merchandisers now play in cut flower distribution.

In our eyes, the perfect Valentine's flower is the Bleeding Heart (Dicentra) because of its shape and color.

Incidentally, we are told that Valentine's Day is the most popular day of the year for wedding proposals, and that February is known as "National Weddings Month."

And, let us not forget that February is also called "Heart Health Month" by the medical community.

Enjoy!