Focus on Hanley Farm – November 2017

Wreaths—a fascinating history and beautiful holiday tradition! The word “wreath” is from an English word meaning “twist, such as in a circle.” And, wreath, translated literally, means “a thing bound around,” from the Greek word “diadema.” In Christianity, the wreath was used to symbolize Christ, the “circular shape, with no beginning or end, representing eternity or life never-ending.” In ancient Rome, wreaths were hung on doors, representing victory. And the Greeks and Romans made laurel wreaths to be worn as headdresses to represent “one’s occupation, rank, achievements and status,” and were used to crown the Olympic Games winners. In the early 19th century, wreaths would be laid on graves to honor the dead. Over the centuries, the wreath has evolved and is now a traditional form of decoration during the Yuletide Season, hung on doors as a “form of welcome, providing cheer to visitors, both old and new,” symbolizing peace, joy and contentment.

And what a lovely tradition it is. On November 25, you can make your own personal wreath at Hanley Farm. Or, make two wreaths—one to adorn your family’s front door, and the other to give as a gift! Wreath-making kits will be available with all of the materials needed to make a wreath, including the grapevine base, choice of greens and berries—all with natural materials clipped from Hanley farm’s trees and bushes.

A Visit From Santa Claus—As a special treat, straight from the North Pole, Santa Claus has accepted our invitation, and he’s bringing his favorite helper-elf with him! In addition to visiting with Santa and making wreaths, take time to browse our Holiday Boutique; join your children at the Kids Craft Corner; and enjoy hot cider and yummy treats available to purchase.

Wreath Making is November 25, 11:00am-3:00pm. Admission: FREE! Wreath-Making Kits: $15 ($10/SOHS Members). For more information, visit sohs.org/hanley-events, or call 541-773-6536, ext. 202. Hanley Farm, 1053 Hanley Road, Central Point.

Windows in Time Series—On November 1 & 8, Linda Cordia is the guest speaker with a presentation on “The Fruits of their Labors: The Bracero Program in Southern Oregon, 1942-1945.” The Bracero Program was a series of laws and diplomatic agreement, initiated in 1942. Ms. Cordia will discuss this program and the 1943 Braceros strike in Medford, Oregon. The Braceros staged a work stoppage to protest their pay, which was based on per-box, versus per hour work. Presentations are noon-1:00pm on Wednesday, November 1 at the Medford Library, 205 S. Central Avenue and on Wednesday, November 8, Ashland Library at 410 Siskiyou Boulevard. Windows in Time is a series of free monthly lectures sponsored by the Southern Oregon Historical Society and the Jackson County Library Services.