Happy Plough Monday, everyone

The first Monday after Epiphany/12th Night is Plough Monday. The day traditionally saw the return to work after the Christmas period in some areas, particularly in northern England and East England.

In medieval England (& earlier) a local priest would bless the village’s shared plough to bring about divine protection for the coming agricultural year.

It was also a tradition in many areas for a plough to be dragged from house to house with villagers following, collecting money around for parish funds.

16th century poet and farmer Thomas Tusser wrote:

"Plough Monday, next after that Twelfth tide is past
Bids out with the plough, the worst husband is last."

Posted By: Old Man, Jan 8, 12:04:41