SAGINAW GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
FROM SHARED KNOWLEDGE
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DID YOU KNOW:
DECEMBER: Here are some interesting facts about December:
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MONTH: DECEMBER
WE ARE SENDING THROUGH THIS MONTHS WEBSITE: recipes, stories, books, information and tons of fun!
WON'T YOU COME JOIN US FOR A VISIT? This page is FREE for you to PERUSE, and even the meetings are FREE for visitors to come and watch. (Just PLEASE pre-register above before the meeting date, or you won't get an invite!) Did you know that December is National Pear Month?
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SPEAKER INFOTUESDAY
DEC 10th SIGN IN @ 6 PM MEETING: 6:30 -8 PM IF YOU'RE PRESENT, THERE'S TREATS TO FOLLOW!
"EVERYONE MAKES MISTAKES, (even experienced Genealogists)"
PRESENTED BY DONNA CARLEVATO SPEAKER: Gerald L. Little Gerald L. Little: Current President of both the Flint and Huron County Genealogical Societies, Webmaster and news editor for both societies. (busy man) He has been doing Genealogy for nearly 40 years. (So he probably knows a thing or two! Come check him out!)
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SGS NEWSSGS MEETING RECAPMEETING IN: NOVEMBER
WE ALL WATCHED AN AMAZING VIDEO THAT BOB SZCZYPKA FOUND AT FAMILYSEARCH FOR US TO WATCH...IT WAS SO POPULAR THAT WE WERE ASKED TO PUT A LINK ONLINE RIGHT AWAY... SO WE DID...AND WE ARE REPEATING IT HERE FOR YOU ALL NOW, AS WELL ...ENJOY!
Get a pen and paper, you're going to need it. There is so much info on this one video!!!
SGS NEWSAn AUDIT took place on 11 Nov 2024 for the SGS, it was GRUELING...(seriously).
THIS IS WHAT WE WERE TOLD WE STILL NEEDED TO DO: (so we did!) 1. Update & revise the Bylaws as per instructed....we did 2. Locate a copy of the CODE OF ETHICS AND CONDUCT...we did (Thank you Donna!) 3. Get a bank copy of the signature cards- (Grants access for Secretary and Treasurer) ...we did. 4. Need to be deleted...Multiple wording changes and old school banking procedures, (which will be gone over and incorporated at the December Board Mtg .) SO... We are now 100% compliant with the Auditors and everyone is happy as a duck in water! 
DID YOU KNOW
ROOTSTECH VIDEOS...
How long will RootsTech sessions be available on the website after the conference? We will keep most of the classes and keynotes from RootsTech up on our sister site THE HISTORY KEY, for approximately three years. Most classes will be available until the THE FOLLOWING YEAR'S conference. SO...Where do I go to watch them? Well, Check it out below! DID YOU ALSO KNOWThere is ONE safe place to store all your photos and stories... FOREVER.
Safely stored 600 ft.+
underground. And also duplicated inside YET another mountain. Yeah...We got you covered! FamilySearch.org is a non-profit and totally free! MILITARY SERVICE: CIVIL WARSix Steps To Find Your Civil War Veterans and Their Regiments
To get the most out of Civil War Stories, you need to know who in your tree might have a story! We show you how in just 6 steps to find those people. MILITARY RECORDS:MILITARY RECORDS-ANCESTRY.COM
CHECK THIS INFO OUT
YOU MAY FIND HELP HERE FOR YOUR SEARCH! YOUR GENEALOGY NEEDS MET AT YOUR LOCAL FSC!
WE are the FamilySearch Center, sponsored by the CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS, an international organization dedicated to helping ALL people worldwide discover their family story.
ARE you looking for help in YOUR Family tree? HERE, you will be shown how to begin a FREE TREE that will be placed online for any of your family members to help share more information about your deceased ancestors. That will enable family around the world to easily retrieve and use this information in search of their family members. FOR over twenty years FamilySearch.org has helped millions of families gather their ancestors. Since it's inception, on May 24, 1999. There are now over 7 million page views each day on www.FamilySearch.org YOU can contribute towards finding your family by starting a FREE ONLINE TREE and gathering and documenting your family for your loved ones. ALWAYS, at FamilySearch we believe connections to our family members past-present-and future can be a source of great joy that helps us to understand our own personal identity and may even help us overcome some of our own challenges in life. WE WANT TO HELP YOU save and share your FAMILY MEMORIES before it’s too late, and they disappear, never to be found again. IT'S FREE, IT'S EASY AS... 1,2,3 ! OR CALL FOR ONLINE HELP AT:
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WHERE HISTORY HOLDS THE KEY! This is a FREE website that promotes self learning. If you want to start a FREE Family Tree on FamilySearch, OR begin family research on Ancestry, or learn how to index records, then... THIS IS THE PLACE! And we also keep track of all the Rootstech videos for you to find RIGHT here. SO COME ON... Learn at HistoryKEY.org which also connects you to the 1950 census! Just click below. FRESHLY UPDATED JUST FOR YOU! WHAT'S ON THE TUBE?Want to know more about INDEXING?
Check out this YOU TUBE VIDEO, A SELF HELP TUTORIAL ... Enjoy :) SQUARE IS HERE FOR YOU
Pay your SGS membership or donate,
with just a few clicks. SQUARE is EASY, SAFE, AND NO HASSLE! (click the SQUARE icon above to pay) MICHIGAN GENEALOGICAL COUNCIL
ANNOUNCEMENT!!
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THE SAGINAW FSC IS OPEN!
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TIMBERTOWN LOG
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A PLACE TO ASK QUESTIONS
This guide shows you how to find BILLIONS of FREE birth, death, marriage and census records!
ANCESTRAL FINDINGS
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Oral histories are a valuable genealogical resource. This is what you need to know about the value of oral histories, where to find them, and how to do them yourself with your own relatives. Click below to learn.
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Did you know that you can now access HUNDREDS of Michigan’s state parks, historic sites, recreation areas and campgrounds for either
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or discounted admission? You can even use it to visit any of the Seven National Park venues in this state!
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Are you a Michigan library card holder?
Did you know that you can now access HUNDREDS of Michigan’s state parks, historic sites, recreation areas and campgrounds for either
FREE
or discounted admission? You can even use it to visit any of the Seven National Park venues in this state!
FOR FREE
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FREE SAGINAW OBITUARIES
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Saginaw Libraries have over
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for you to find.
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200,00+ OBITUARIES
for you to find.
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With the combined efforts of our
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we try to find you an answer for
Saginaw County Ancestors.
Click above on the Miss Betty Icon.
OR GO TO: ASK MISS BETTY
and fill out the form.
We don't charge for the help
(but we DO take donations).
board-members
we try to find you an answer for
Saginaw County Ancestors.
Click above on the Miss Betty Icon.
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and fill out the form.
We don't charge for the help
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IN YOUR NAME. FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE EMAIL TO:
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MICHIGAN-STATE GENEALOGY
The website for all things pertaining to
HISTORICAL RESEARCH
and documents for the
STATE OF MICHIGAN.
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DID YOU KNOW?
NEWSBANK can be used for FREE with your public library card ID number. This website has newspapers to search thru for obituaries!
GIVE IT A TRY!
GIVE IT A TRY!
FREE HELPS
17 ALL FREE GREAT
WEBSITES FOR GENEALOGY!
1. CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT.
2. PACK A LUNCH. (JUST KIDDING)
3. SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO HERE!
WEBSITES FOR GENEALOGY!
1. CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT.
2. PACK A LUNCH. (JUST KIDDING)
3. SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO HERE!
FREE GENEALOGY SITES
LAND SAKES ALIVE! HERE'S 50 MORE!!
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IT'S A HOOT!
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Suitable for framing, or documentation for your ancestors who lived in Saginaw County
along with their VETTED pedigree.
*Your ancestor will be noted on our website
AND YOU RECEIVE:
*A handsome embossed certificate *
Suitable for framing, or documentation for your ancestors who lived in Saginaw County
along with their VETTED pedigree.
MORE HELP
How SideView™ Technology Splits Your DNA Results by Parent
When YOU first read your DNA, ...you don’t know which parts of your DNA came from each parent. Ancestry® developed a technology called SideView™ to sort this out using DNA matches. Because a match is usually related to you through only one parent, your matches can help us “organize” the DNA you share with them.
SideView™ technology powers your ethnicity inheritance—the portions of each region you inherited from each parent. This enables us to provide your ethnicity inheritance without testing your parents (though we don’t know which parent is which).
SideView™ technology powers your ethnicity inheritance—the portions of each region you inherited from each parent. This enables us to provide your ethnicity inheritance without testing your parents (though we don’t know which parent is which).
NEED GENEALOGY GIFTS?
BEV PALMER used to live in Saginaw, she is a fellow genealogist and has started this business. Lots of cool stuff - from babies to bags, and from T-shirts to tags, she's got it all!
check it out below!
check it out below!
LINKS FOR OUR READERS
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GENEALOGY HELPS
What is ThruLines?
ThruLines shows identified descendants of a given ancestor who have tested with AncestryDNA, and share DNA with the tester whose results are being reviewed.
ThruLines replaces Shared Ancestor Hints, and greatly expands upon the data provided by those hints.
ThruLines provides the opportunity to view connections that would take a great deal of research to find manually.
ThruLines is accessible from “Your DNA Results Summary” under DNA in the top menu bar on Ancestry. To have access to ThruLines data, your family tree must be PUBLIC, and linked to your DNA test.
To check this, do these 3 steps:
1. Go to Your DNA Results Summary, and
2. Click on the Settings button (near the top right corner of the screen).
3. Follow the instructions in the Family Tree Linking section.
AncestryDNA® ThruLines®
ThruLines® shows you how you may be related to your DNA matches.
We use the ANCESTRY family tree linked to your test to find people who are in your tree and are also in your matches's linked trees. If your tree is private and not searchable, you won't be able to see ThruLines, and information from your matches' trees that are private and not searchable won't be available to you. DNA matches may appear in more than one of your ThruLines.
ThruLines are available for ancestors through 5th great-grandparents.
SORRY, ThruLines won't appear for 6th great-grandparents and beyond.
ThruLines shows identified descendants of a given ancestor who have tested with AncestryDNA, and share DNA with the tester whose results are being reviewed.
ThruLines replaces Shared Ancestor Hints, and greatly expands upon the data provided by those hints.
ThruLines provides the opportunity to view connections that would take a great deal of research to find manually.
ThruLines is accessible from “Your DNA Results Summary” under DNA in the top menu bar on Ancestry. To have access to ThruLines data, your family tree must be PUBLIC, and linked to your DNA test.
To check this, do these 3 steps:
1. Go to Your DNA Results Summary, and
2. Click on the Settings button (near the top right corner of the screen).
3. Follow the instructions in the Family Tree Linking section.
AncestryDNA® ThruLines®
ThruLines® shows you how you may be related to your DNA matches.
We use the ANCESTRY family tree linked to your test to find people who are in your tree and are also in your matches's linked trees. If your tree is private and not searchable, you won't be able to see ThruLines, and information from your matches' trees that are private and not searchable won't be available to you. DNA matches may appear in more than one of your ThruLines.
ThruLines are available for ancestors through 5th great-grandparents.
SORRY, ThruLines won't appear for 6th great-grandparents and beyond.
FREE WEBINARS
FamilySearch - Family Search Library Free Online Webinars
2024 classes are now online!
No registration is required.
Class size for webinars is NOT limited.
See the table of webinars below for more details.
2024 classes are now online!
No registration is required.
Class size for webinars is NOT limited.
See the table of webinars below for more details.
If you cannot attend a LIVE EVENT, most sessions are recorded and can be viewed later at your convenience at the following link:
SEARCH TIPS
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6 Ancestry Search Tips
1. Pinpoint your ancestor’s location from the census, on a MAP, and then look for churches, cemeteries, and other places where your ancestor may have left records.
2. Be sure to locate your ancestor’s ADULT SIBLINGS in census records. It was common for extended family to live in the same household or near other family members. You may find a parent, grandparent, or other family members living either with them or nearby.
3. If you’re having a difficult time locating your ancestor, try searching, using only GIVEN names and other details like birth year, residence, family members, place of birth, etc.
4. Occasionally, census takers only recorded initials in place of the given name. Using only a FIRST INITIAL will bring up these records.
5. Census takers didn’t always have the best penmanship, so if you’re having a hard time locating your ancestor, write out the NAME and try replacing some of the letters, with letters that look similar. (Try an O for an A, try an J for a P, try a F for an S.)
6. The U.S. federal censuses for the years 1900 TO THE 1930 include a DATE OF IMMIGRATION for immigrants. Use that date to narrow your search for your ancestor’s passenger arrival record in the Immigration Collection.
FMH TOOL KIT
click below How do I keep track of my Family Medical History?
If possible, look at DEATH CERTIFICATES and FAMILY MEDICAL RECORDS. Collect information about your parents, sisters, brothers, half-sisters, half-brothers, children, grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. How you make your request will depend on your provider's processes. You may be able to request your record through your provider's patient portal. You may have to fill out a form — called a health or medical record release form, or to request for access—send an email, or mail or fax a letter to your provider. For more info click below on:
https://www.healthit.gov/how-to-get-your-health-record/get-it/#:~:text=How%20you%20make%20your%20request,a%20letter%20to%20your%20provider.
Family members share genes, habits, lifestyles, and surroundings.
These things can affect health and the risk for illness. Most people have a relative with a chronic disease or a health condition such as high cholesterol. If you have a close family member with a chronic disease, you may be more likely to get that disease.
BE INFORMED!
How far back should I go for family medical history?
The CDC recommends taking a family health history that includes at least three generations. You should include your grandparents, parents, brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, and cousins on both sides of your family. If you have children, include them, too.
MAKE SURE TO RECORD THIS INFO!
What if I don't know my family's medical history?
If you have your birth parents' names, public records such as birth or death certificates may give you more insight into your family's background. Also ask your adoptive parents or the adoption agency whether they have any information that could give you more information about YOUR family medical history.
YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO KNOW!
Your family health history plays an important role in your health.
Download FREE copies of our family health history toolkit to share with your family, friends, and colleagues. Take this important step for YOUR health. DO IT NOW!
If possible, look at DEATH CERTIFICATES and FAMILY MEDICAL RECORDS. Collect information about your parents, sisters, brothers, half-sisters, half-brothers, children, grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. How you make your request will depend on your provider's processes. You may be able to request your record through your provider's patient portal. You may have to fill out a form — called a health or medical record release form, or to request for access—send an email, or mail or fax a letter to your provider. For more info click below on:
https://www.healthit.gov/how-to-get-your-health-record/get-it/#:~:text=How%20you%20make%20your%20request,a%20letter%20to%20your%20provider.
Family members share genes, habits, lifestyles, and surroundings.
These things can affect health and the risk for illness. Most people have a relative with a chronic disease or a health condition such as high cholesterol. If you have a close family member with a chronic disease, you may be more likely to get that disease.
BE INFORMED!
How far back should I go for family medical history?
The CDC recommends taking a family health history that includes at least three generations. You should include your grandparents, parents, brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, and cousins on both sides of your family. If you have children, include them, too.
MAKE SURE TO RECORD THIS INFO!
What if I don't know my family's medical history?
If you have your birth parents' names, public records such as birth or death certificates may give you more insight into your family's background. Also ask your adoptive parents or the adoption agency whether they have any information that could give you more information about YOUR family medical history.
YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO KNOW!
Your family health history plays an important role in your health.
Download FREE copies of our family health history toolkit to share with your family, friends, and colleagues. Take this important step for YOUR health. DO IT NOW!
In 2013, an enigmatic gold ring associated with an ancient Roman curse resurfaced in Great Britain, going on exhibition to the pleasure of diehard J.R.R. Tolkien fans. The show was put on by Britain’s National Trust at The Vyne, and the Tolkien fandom flocked from the four corners of (Middle) Earth to see the magnificent, maledicted relic.
Discovered in 1785 in a southern English field near the remains of an ancient Roman settlement, some scholars claim this is the artifact that inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s iconic verse:
One Ring to rule them all,
One Ring to find them,
One Ring to bring them all And in the darkness bind them.
But is there any truth to the idea that Tolkien knew about this archaeological find or its associated hex? Here’s what we know about the “Ring of Silvianus.”
One Ring to Curse Them AllToday, you’ll find countless gold and silver rings dating to Roman times in museums and archives around the world. There is one, however, that stands apart from the rest. The Ring of Silvianus, known alternately as the Ring of Senicianus and the Vyne Ring, comes with a remarkable story and a cursed past.
What we know about the ring’s origins are somewhat scant. In the 4th century AD, a Roman soldier stationed in Gloucestershire, England, by the name of Silvianus visited baths dedicated to the Celtic god Nodens. The Temple of Nodens sat on a hill above the River Severn at Lidney and celebrated the Roman-British deity associated with hunting, dogs, healing, and the sea.
Nodens boasts many literary and cultural references, including links to the Fisher King of Arthurian legends. Associations also exist with the Norse god Njord of the Vanir (god of wine, sailing, fishing, and fertile land), the Roman god Mars, and Nuada Airgetlam, the first king of the Tuatha Dé Danann.
Silvianus’s Desperate Plea to NodensWhile at the Temple, Silvianus’s golden ring vanished. Believing the culprit to be an individual named Senicianus, Silvianus made an appeal for supernatural justice. At the Temple, he left money before crafting a lead plate known as a curse tablet or defixio. On the tablet, he wrote the words:
Devo Nodenti Silvianus anilum perdedit demediam partem donavit Nodenti inter quibus nomen Seniciani nollis petmittas sanitatem donec perfera(t) usque templum [No-] dentis
In English, the script reads:
To the god Nodens. Silvianus has lost his ring and given half (its value) to Nodens. Among those who are called Senicianus do not allow health until he brings it to the temple of Nodens.
(This curse) comes into force again.
Why Silvianus believed Senicianus stole his ring remains a mystery. Nonetheless, a later inscription placed on the object provides evidence for Senicianus’s ownership of the anathematized (stolen) artifact.
The Re-Emergence of an Ancient Treasure
Silvianus’s ring has a diameter of one inch (25 mm) and weighs 0.4 ounces (12 grams). It has ten facets and a square bezel engraved with an image of Venus, the Roman goddess. Because of the ring’s impressive size, some have speculated the owner wore it on a thumb or over a glove. When owned by the pagan Silvianus, the ring’s ten gold sides remained bare.
A later Christian owner placed a crudely executed inscription on the ring reading, “SENICIANE VIVAS IIN DE” or “Senicianus, may you live with God.” This message contains misspellings ([i]in de[o]) and may represent the work of the accused thief. Here’s where the story of the ring’s trail goes cold for 1,300 years.
Rediscovered in the late 18th-century, the artifact gleamed tantalizingly in a plowed field on a farm near Silchester. This English town boasts Roman origins and sits 80 miles (128 kilometers) from Lydney, the site of the Temple of Nodens. Whether the ring was lost or intentionally discarded by Senicianus or another individual remains a mystery. As for whether or not the thief fell victim to Silvianus’s curse? The story has been lost to history.
From Ancient Controversy to Tantalizing History
After falling on hard times, the Silchester farmer sold the ring to his neighbors, the Chutes, who lived in a grand Tudor house known as The Vyne. Despite their interest in history and antiquities, the Chutes paid little attention to the ring until 1888 when Chaloner Chute began studying it. He soon wrote a paper on its history.
The curse tablet would turn up in the early 19th century, but nobody would make the connection between these two artifacts for nearly a century. Then, in 1929, the archaeologist Sir Mortimer Wheeler first associated the Vyne Ring and Silvianus’s curse tablet. Although Wheeler could never definitively prove the ring’s connection to the curse, material evidence supports his theory. The name Senicianus is quite rare in Roman texts. What’s more, the artifacts date to the same period.
To confirm his suspicions and learn more about the curse tablet’s connection to the ring, Wheeler called in his friend and colleague, J.R.R. Tolkien. Wheeler hoped Tolkien, a professor of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford University, would help him better understand the origins of the name Nodens. On several occasions, Tolkien visited the Temple of Nodens as he worked on uncovering the mystery of the name. During these research trips, it is likely Tolkien learned about the Vyne Ring (a.k.a. Ring of Silvanius).
More Than a Ring
Within a year, Tolkien started writing The Hobbit. In the story, Bilbo Baggins comes across “one very beautiful thing, very beautiful, very wonderful. He had a ring, a golden ring, a precious ring.” Tolkien also peopled his novel with dwarves who mined the depths of the earth. The remains of the Temple of Nodens sits atop an iron-age site with ancient tunnels and mine workings, known as “Dwarf’s Hill.” (Of course, the Shire represents an idealized version of the rural English countryside.)
Which ring was Tolkiens inspriation?
But wasn’t the “One Ring” in Tolkien’s novels inspired by another found in the Germanic Nibelungenlied saga? If we’re to take Tolkien at his word, such was not the case. When asked about the ring of Germanic mythology, he stated, “Both rings were round, and there the resemblance ceased.”
Some compelling similarities
...between the Vyne Ring and that of the “One Ring” in The Hobbit exist. Professor of archaeology, Mark Horton, of the University of Bristol, and Dr. Lynn Forest-Hill have published work on the subject. Fascinating Similarities Beg the Question
Horton and Forest-Hill note that both rings were made of gold and mysteriously disappeared. Silvianus lost his in Lydney as Gollum did under the Misty Mountains. Both the real-life Roman and the fictional Gollum then went on to suspect thieves whose names they openly cursed. After discovering Bilbo had the ring, Gollum raged, “Thief, thief, thief! Baggins! We hates it. we hates it, we hates it forever!” Coupled with the author’s close association with the ring and curse tablet, the evidence provides a fascinating new take on what inspired The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. While Silvianus’s curse certainly proved more articulate than Gollum’s rants, some say the spirit of the defixio shines through in these passages from Tolkien. Fortunately, there have been no sightings of Sauron near The Vyne. LOL.
Discovered in 1785 in a southern English field near the remains of an ancient Roman settlement, some scholars claim this is the artifact that inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s iconic verse:
One Ring to rule them all,
One Ring to find them,
One Ring to bring them all And in the darkness bind them.
But is there any truth to the idea that Tolkien knew about this archaeological find or its associated hex? Here’s what we know about the “Ring of Silvianus.”
One Ring to Curse Them AllToday, you’ll find countless gold and silver rings dating to Roman times in museums and archives around the world. There is one, however, that stands apart from the rest. The Ring of Silvianus, known alternately as the Ring of Senicianus and the Vyne Ring, comes with a remarkable story and a cursed past.
What we know about the ring’s origins are somewhat scant. In the 4th century AD, a Roman soldier stationed in Gloucestershire, England, by the name of Silvianus visited baths dedicated to the Celtic god Nodens. The Temple of Nodens sat on a hill above the River Severn at Lidney and celebrated the Roman-British deity associated with hunting, dogs, healing, and the sea.
Nodens boasts many literary and cultural references, including links to the Fisher King of Arthurian legends. Associations also exist with the Norse god Njord of the Vanir (god of wine, sailing, fishing, and fertile land), the Roman god Mars, and Nuada Airgetlam, the first king of the Tuatha Dé Danann.
Silvianus’s Desperate Plea to NodensWhile at the Temple, Silvianus’s golden ring vanished. Believing the culprit to be an individual named Senicianus, Silvianus made an appeal for supernatural justice. At the Temple, he left money before crafting a lead plate known as a curse tablet or defixio. On the tablet, he wrote the words:
Devo Nodenti Silvianus anilum perdedit demediam partem donavit Nodenti inter quibus nomen Seniciani nollis petmittas sanitatem donec perfera(t) usque templum [No-] dentis
In English, the script reads:
To the god Nodens. Silvianus has lost his ring and given half (its value) to Nodens. Among those who are called Senicianus do not allow health until he brings it to the temple of Nodens.
(This curse) comes into force again.
Why Silvianus believed Senicianus stole his ring remains a mystery. Nonetheless, a later inscription placed on the object provides evidence for Senicianus’s ownership of the anathematized (stolen) artifact.
The Re-Emergence of an Ancient Treasure
Silvianus’s ring has a diameter of one inch (25 mm) and weighs 0.4 ounces (12 grams). It has ten facets and a square bezel engraved with an image of Venus, the Roman goddess. Because of the ring’s impressive size, some have speculated the owner wore it on a thumb or over a glove. When owned by the pagan Silvianus, the ring’s ten gold sides remained bare.
A later Christian owner placed a crudely executed inscription on the ring reading, “SENICIANE VIVAS IIN DE” or “Senicianus, may you live with God.” This message contains misspellings ([i]in de[o]) and may represent the work of the accused thief. Here’s where the story of the ring’s trail goes cold for 1,300 years.
Rediscovered in the late 18th-century, the artifact gleamed tantalizingly in a plowed field on a farm near Silchester. This English town boasts Roman origins and sits 80 miles (128 kilometers) from Lydney, the site of the Temple of Nodens. Whether the ring was lost or intentionally discarded by Senicianus or another individual remains a mystery. As for whether or not the thief fell victim to Silvianus’s curse? The story has been lost to history.
From Ancient Controversy to Tantalizing History
After falling on hard times, the Silchester farmer sold the ring to his neighbors, the Chutes, who lived in a grand Tudor house known as The Vyne. Despite their interest in history and antiquities, the Chutes paid little attention to the ring until 1888 when Chaloner Chute began studying it. He soon wrote a paper on its history.
The curse tablet would turn up in the early 19th century, but nobody would make the connection between these two artifacts for nearly a century. Then, in 1929, the archaeologist Sir Mortimer Wheeler first associated the Vyne Ring and Silvianus’s curse tablet. Although Wheeler could never definitively prove the ring’s connection to the curse, material evidence supports his theory. The name Senicianus is quite rare in Roman texts. What’s more, the artifacts date to the same period.
To confirm his suspicions and learn more about the curse tablet’s connection to the ring, Wheeler called in his friend and colleague, J.R.R. Tolkien. Wheeler hoped Tolkien, a professor of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford University, would help him better understand the origins of the name Nodens. On several occasions, Tolkien visited the Temple of Nodens as he worked on uncovering the mystery of the name. During these research trips, it is likely Tolkien learned about the Vyne Ring (a.k.a. Ring of Silvanius).
More Than a Ring
Within a year, Tolkien started writing The Hobbit. In the story, Bilbo Baggins comes across “one very beautiful thing, very beautiful, very wonderful. He had a ring, a golden ring, a precious ring.” Tolkien also peopled his novel with dwarves who mined the depths of the earth. The remains of the Temple of Nodens sits atop an iron-age site with ancient tunnels and mine workings, known as “Dwarf’s Hill.” (Of course, the Shire represents an idealized version of the rural English countryside.)
Which ring was Tolkiens inspriation?
But wasn’t the “One Ring” in Tolkien’s novels inspired by another found in the Germanic Nibelungenlied saga? If we’re to take Tolkien at his word, such was not the case. When asked about the ring of Germanic mythology, he stated, “Both rings were round, and there the resemblance ceased.”
Some compelling similarities
...between the Vyne Ring and that of the “One Ring” in The Hobbit exist. Professor of archaeology, Mark Horton, of the University of Bristol, and Dr. Lynn Forest-Hill have published work on the subject. Fascinating Similarities Beg the Question
Horton and Forest-Hill note that both rings were made of gold and mysteriously disappeared. Silvianus lost his in Lydney as Gollum did under the Misty Mountains. Both the real-life Roman and the fictional Gollum then went on to suspect thieves whose names they openly cursed. After discovering Bilbo had the ring, Gollum raged, “Thief, thief, thief! Baggins! We hates it. we hates it, we hates it forever!” Coupled with the author’s close association with the ring and curse tablet, the evidence provides a fascinating new take on what inspired The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. While Silvianus’s curse certainly proved more articulate than Gollum’s rants, some say the spirit of the defixio shines through in these passages from Tolkien. Fortunately, there have been no sightings of Sauron near The Vyne. LOL.
So interesting I just had to show you...one more variety of pear...
"Dacryodes edulis" the African Ube!
Doubt I will ever see or try one, but I thought it looked interesting!
"Dacryodes edulis" the African Ube!
Doubt I will ever see or try one, but I thought it looked interesting!
FOOD & FAMILY
Did you know...family recipes are a tradition!?!
GO AHEAD...Make it with family!
GO AHEAD...Make it with family!
What food is most popular in
DECEMBER?
Well, that would be anything associated with DINNER, JOY & FAMILY!
DECEMBER?
Well, that would be anything associated with DINNER, JOY & FAMILY!
IN MEMORY OF:
NO ONE PASSED TODAY FROM THE SGS,
JUST REMEMBER YOUR FRIENDS
BE THEY TWO OR FOUR LEGGED!
JUST REMEMBER YOUR FRIENDS
BE THEY TWO OR FOUR LEGGED!
GENEALOGY PUNS
MILITARY
A SOLDIER CELEBRATES
John Price- December 28, 2023
When I was stationed at Incirlik Air Base in Turkey in 1982, I worked on Christmas Day, as a single man, in order to give family men the day to be with their families. I had always done so, throughout my Air Force career AND NEVER HAD A PROBLEM WITH IT. But that morning, when I returned to my silent roof-top off-base apartment, and saw my small 'Charlie Brown' Christmas tree (it had just two branches, and not much in the way of vegetation on the limbs). Well, it may have begun to look a bit meager in my eyes. Especially with the resulting tears and the momentary self-pity I had in celebrating the day. It made me think long and hard about what Christmas REALLY means. But then, as we gathered on the day AFTER Christmas, all us single guys, as military police or 'cops' enjoyed a few moments together, remembering all the past Christmas' we'd celebrated back home with OUR families. But it was IN that sentimental moment, on a rooftop apartment, far away from the 'real' world, that I’ve NEVER forgotten!
When I was stationed at Incirlik Air Base in Turkey in 1982, I worked on Christmas Day, as a single man, in order to give family men the day to be with their families. I had always done so, throughout my Air Force career AND NEVER HAD A PROBLEM WITH IT. But that morning, when I returned to my silent roof-top off-base apartment, and saw my small 'Charlie Brown' Christmas tree (it had just two branches, and not much in the way of vegetation on the limbs). Well, it may have begun to look a bit meager in my eyes. Especially with the resulting tears and the momentary self-pity I had in celebrating the day. It made me think long and hard about what Christmas REALLY means. But then, as we gathered on the day AFTER Christmas, all us single guys, as military police or 'cops' enjoyed a few moments together, remembering all the past Christmas' we'd celebrated back home with OUR families. But it was IN that sentimental moment, on a rooftop apartment, far away from the 'real' world, that I’ve NEVER forgotten!
A CHRISTMAS IN THE COLD
Washington Crossing the Delaware on Christmas
During the American Revolutionary War, Christmas for General George Washington is most notably associated with the "Crossing of the Delaware," where on Christmas night, 1776, he led his troops across the icy Delaware River to surprise and attack Hessian soldiers stationed in Trenton, New Jersey, marking a crucial victory for the Continental Army and boosting morale during a difficult period of the war.
Key points about Christmas during the Revolutionary War with Washington:
During the American Revolutionary War, Christmas for General George Washington is most notably associated with the "Crossing of the Delaware," where on Christmas night, 1776, he led his troops across the icy Delaware River to surprise and attack Hessian soldiers stationed in Trenton, New Jersey, marking a crucial victory for the Continental Army and boosting morale during a difficult period of the war.
Key points about Christmas during the Revolutionary War with Washington:
- The Crossing of the Delaware:
This daring maneuver on Christmas Eve, 1776, is considered one of the most famous moments in American history, where Washington and his soldiers braved harsh winter conditions to launch a surprise attack on the Hessian forces. - Strategic Importance:
This battle at Trenton was a significant turning point in the war, as it provided a much-needed victory for the struggling Continental Army and lifted the spirits of the soldiers. - No Festive Celebration:
While the modern idea of Christmas celebrations might be associated with the holiday, soldiers during the Revolutionary War, including those under Washington's command, likely did not have the luxury of festive celebrations due to the ongoing war and harsh conditions. - Impact on Morale:
Despite the lack of traditional festivities, the success of the Trenton attack following the Christmas crossing significantly boosted the morale of the Continental Army.
WWI AND CHRISTMAS
Christmas 1914
British and German troops meeting in no man's land during the unofficial truce (British troops from the Northumberland Hussars, 7th Division, Bridoux–Rouge Banc Sector)
Roughly 100,000 British and German troops were involved in the informal cessations of hostility along the Western Front. The Germans placed candles on their trenches and on 'Christmas' pine trees, then continued the celebration by singing Christmas carols. The British responded by singing carols of their own.
The two sides continued by shouting Christmas greetings to each other. Soon thereafter, there were excursions across No Man's Land, where small gifts were exchanged, such as food, tobacco, alcohol, and souvenirs such as buttons and hats. The artillery in the region fell silent. The truce also allowed a breathing spell during which recently killed soldiers could be brought back behind their lines by burial parties. Joint services were held. In many sectors the truce lasted through Christmas night, continuing until New Year's Day in others.
On Christmas Day Brigadier-General Walter Congreve, commander of the 18th Infantry Brigade, stationed near Neuve Chapelle, wrote a letter recalling that the Germans declared a truce for the day. One of his men bravely lifted his head above the parapet and others from both sides walked onto no man's land. Officers and men shook hands and exchanged cigarettes and cigars; one of his captains "smoked a cigar with the man deemed the "best shot in the German army", the latter no more than 18 years old. Congreve admitted he was reluctant to witness the truce for fear of German snipers.
Captain Sir Edward Hulse reported how the first interpreter he met from the German lines was from Suffolk and had left his girlfriend and a 3.5 hp motorcycle. Hulse described a sing-song which "ended up with 'Auld lang syne' which we all, English, Scots, Irish, Prussians, Württenbergers, etc, joined in. It was absolutely astounding, and if I had seen it on a cinematograph film I should have sworn that it was faked!"
Many accounts of the truce involve one or more football matches played in 'no man's land'. This was mentioned in some of the earliest reports, with a letter written by a doctor attached to the Rifle Brigade, published in The Times on 1 January 1915, reporting "a football match... played between them and us in front of the trench". Similar stories have been told over the years, often naming units or the score. Some accounts of the game bring in elements of fiction by Robert Graves, a British poet and writer (and an officer on the front at the time) who reconstructed the encounter in a story published in 1962; in Graves's version the score was 3–2, to the Germans.
British and German troops meeting in no man's land during the unofficial truce (British troops from the Northumberland Hussars, 7th Division, Bridoux–Rouge Banc Sector)
Roughly 100,000 British and German troops were involved in the informal cessations of hostility along the Western Front. The Germans placed candles on their trenches and on 'Christmas' pine trees, then continued the celebration by singing Christmas carols. The British responded by singing carols of their own.
The two sides continued by shouting Christmas greetings to each other. Soon thereafter, there were excursions across No Man's Land, where small gifts were exchanged, such as food, tobacco, alcohol, and souvenirs such as buttons and hats. The artillery in the region fell silent. The truce also allowed a breathing spell during which recently killed soldiers could be brought back behind their lines by burial parties. Joint services were held. In many sectors the truce lasted through Christmas night, continuing until New Year's Day in others.
On Christmas Day Brigadier-General Walter Congreve, commander of the 18th Infantry Brigade, stationed near Neuve Chapelle, wrote a letter recalling that the Germans declared a truce for the day. One of his men bravely lifted his head above the parapet and others from both sides walked onto no man's land. Officers and men shook hands and exchanged cigarettes and cigars; one of his captains "smoked a cigar with the man deemed the "best shot in the German army", the latter no more than 18 years old. Congreve admitted he was reluctant to witness the truce for fear of German snipers.
Captain Sir Edward Hulse reported how the first interpreter he met from the German lines was from Suffolk and had left his girlfriend and a 3.5 hp motorcycle. Hulse described a sing-song which "ended up with 'Auld lang syne' which we all, English, Scots, Irish, Prussians, Württenbergers, etc, joined in. It was absolutely astounding, and if I had seen it on a cinematograph film I should have sworn that it was faked!"
Many accounts of the truce involve one or more football matches played in 'no man's land'. This was mentioned in some of the earliest reports, with a letter written by a doctor attached to the Rifle Brigade, published in The Times on 1 January 1915, reporting "a football match... played between them and us in front of the trench". Similar stories have been told over the years, often naming units or the score. Some accounts of the game bring in elements of fiction by Robert Graves, a British poet and writer (and an officer on the front at the time) who reconstructed the encounter in a story published in 1962; in Graves's version the score was 3–2, to the Germans.
PRE-REGISTER PLEASE
ALL VISITORS OR NEW MEMBERS
MUST PRE-REGISTER
Please note: Invite
LINK is sent the day BEFORE the meetings.
SO REGISTER TODAY!
MUST PRE-REGISTER
Please note: Invite
LINK is sent the day BEFORE the meetings.
SO REGISTER TODAY!
WWII A BRIEF PEACE
Christmas Eve 1944: a brief moment of peace on the battlefield
While the “Christmas Truce” of 1914 has achieved legendary status in the history of World War I, there has been little coverage of similar events involving American troops. When America entered World War I, years of massive casualties discouraged any brotherly feeling between the opposing armies, and senior officers actively discouraged any repeat of the events of 1914.
In World War II, there were few chances for such events, as American troops were in close contact with German forces only
in relatively small numbers in North Africa and Italy prior to the 1944 D-Day landings. Any large scale truce for Christmas 1944 was impossible as just nine days prior to Christmas, the Germans launched their largest counteroffensive of the war in the west, resulting in the Battle of the Bulge and heavy fighting throughout the holiday.
Yet while there is no mention of any “Christmas truce” in the official records, we do have a personal account of a much smaller truce during the height of the fighting in the Battle of the Bulge. This is the story of Fritz Vincken, a young German boy at the time of the battle. Fritz, then 12-years-old, had moved with his mother to a small cottage in the Huertgen forest after their hometown of Aachen was partially destroyed in an earlier American offensive.
The area had stayed quiet until nine days before Christmas, when the German Ardennes Offensive had crashed through the area. According to Fritz, “we heard the incessant booming of field guns; planes soared continuously overhead; at night searchlights stabbed through the darkness.”
On Christmas Eve, 1944, Fritz and his mother answered a knock at the door -- three American soldiers, one badly wounded, were standing there. While the Vinckens did not speak English nor the Americans any German, they were able to communicate to a limited extent in French. Fritz’s mother invited the Americans inside and attempted to make them comfortable.
Fritz remembered: “We learned that the stocky, dark-haired fellow was Jim; his friend, tall and slender, was Robin. Harry, the wounded one, was now sleeping on my bed, his face as white as the snow outside. They’d lost their battalion and had wandered in the forest for three days, looking for the Americans, and hiding from the Germans. They hadn’t shaved, but still, without their heavy coats, they looked merely like big boys. And that was the way Mother began to treat them.”
Fritz’s mother made a meal of potatoes and a rooster, previously being saved for a reunion with Fritz’s father. As they cooked, there was a second knock on the door: “Expecting to find more lost Americans, I opened the door without hesitation. There stood four soldiers, wearing uniforms quite familiar to me after five years of war. They were Wehrmacht – Germans! I was paralyzed with fear. Although still a child, I knew the harsh law: sheltering enemy soldiers constituted high treason. We could all be shot!”
The corporal leading the German patrol told Fritz’s mother, “we have lost our regiment and would like to wait for daylight…can we rest here?” “Of course,” she replied, “you can also have a fine, warm meal and eat ‘til the pot is empty. But, we have three other guests, whom you may not consider friends. This is Christmas Eve, and there will be no shooting here.” The corporal demanded, “Who is inside? Amerikaner?”
Fritz’s mother replied, “Listen. You could be one of my sons, and so could they in there. A boy with a gunshot wound, fighting for his life, and his two friends, lost like you and just as hungry and exhausted as you are. This one night, this Christmas night, let us forget about killing.”
The Germans stacked their arms by the door, and after a quick conversation in French the startled Americans also turned over their weapons to Fritz’s mother. The entire mixed group, somewhat tensely, sat down and shared dinner. And According to Fritz: “Relaxation was now beginning to replace suspicion. Even to me, all the soldiers looked very young as we sat there together.
Heinz and Willi, both from Cologne, were 16. The German corporal, at 23, was the oldest of them all. From his food bag he drew out a bottle of red wine, and Heinz managed to find a loaf of rye bread. Mother cut that in small pieces to be served with the dinner; half the wine, however, she put away, ‘for the wounded boy.’ Then Mother said grace. I noticed that there were tears in her eyes as she said the old, familiar words, ‘Komm, Herr Jesus. Be our guest.’ And as I looked around the table, I saw tears, too, in the eyes of the battle-weary soldiers, boys again, some from America, some from Germany, all far from home.
Just before midnight, Mother went to the doorstep and asked us to join her to look up at the Star of Bethlehem. We all stood beside her except Harry, who was sleeping. For all of us, during that moment of silence, looking at the brightest star in the heavens, the war was a distant, almost-forgotten thing.”
The truce held through the morning, Christmas Day, when the two sets of soldiers shook hands and departed, each headed back to their own army.
It is likely that there were other such small scale truces, or at least tacit agreements between local American and German units to refrain from attacks and firing on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, perhaps in Italy in 1943 or in quieter parts of the line in 1944, but this is the ONLY documented case currently known.
While the “Christmas Truce” of 1914 has achieved legendary status in the history of World War I, there has been little coverage of similar events involving American troops. When America entered World War I, years of massive casualties discouraged any brotherly feeling between the opposing armies, and senior officers actively discouraged any repeat of the events of 1914.
In World War II, there were few chances for such events, as American troops were in close contact with German forces only
in relatively small numbers in North Africa and Italy prior to the 1944 D-Day landings. Any large scale truce for Christmas 1944 was impossible as just nine days prior to Christmas, the Germans launched their largest counteroffensive of the war in the west, resulting in the Battle of the Bulge and heavy fighting throughout the holiday.
Yet while there is no mention of any “Christmas truce” in the official records, we do have a personal account of a much smaller truce during the height of the fighting in the Battle of the Bulge. This is the story of Fritz Vincken, a young German boy at the time of the battle. Fritz, then 12-years-old, had moved with his mother to a small cottage in the Huertgen forest after their hometown of Aachen was partially destroyed in an earlier American offensive.
The area had stayed quiet until nine days before Christmas, when the German Ardennes Offensive had crashed through the area. According to Fritz, “we heard the incessant booming of field guns; planes soared continuously overhead; at night searchlights stabbed through the darkness.”
On Christmas Eve, 1944, Fritz and his mother answered a knock at the door -- three American soldiers, one badly wounded, were standing there. While the Vinckens did not speak English nor the Americans any German, they were able to communicate to a limited extent in French. Fritz’s mother invited the Americans inside and attempted to make them comfortable.
Fritz remembered: “We learned that the stocky, dark-haired fellow was Jim; his friend, tall and slender, was Robin. Harry, the wounded one, was now sleeping on my bed, his face as white as the snow outside. They’d lost their battalion and had wandered in the forest for three days, looking for the Americans, and hiding from the Germans. They hadn’t shaved, but still, without their heavy coats, they looked merely like big boys. And that was the way Mother began to treat them.”
Fritz’s mother made a meal of potatoes and a rooster, previously being saved for a reunion with Fritz’s father. As they cooked, there was a second knock on the door: “Expecting to find more lost Americans, I opened the door without hesitation. There stood four soldiers, wearing uniforms quite familiar to me after five years of war. They were Wehrmacht – Germans! I was paralyzed with fear. Although still a child, I knew the harsh law: sheltering enemy soldiers constituted high treason. We could all be shot!”
The corporal leading the German patrol told Fritz’s mother, “we have lost our regiment and would like to wait for daylight…can we rest here?” “Of course,” she replied, “you can also have a fine, warm meal and eat ‘til the pot is empty. But, we have three other guests, whom you may not consider friends. This is Christmas Eve, and there will be no shooting here.” The corporal demanded, “Who is inside? Amerikaner?”
Fritz’s mother replied, “Listen. You could be one of my sons, and so could they in there. A boy with a gunshot wound, fighting for his life, and his two friends, lost like you and just as hungry and exhausted as you are. This one night, this Christmas night, let us forget about killing.”
The Germans stacked their arms by the door, and after a quick conversation in French the startled Americans also turned over their weapons to Fritz’s mother. The entire mixed group, somewhat tensely, sat down and shared dinner. And According to Fritz: “Relaxation was now beginning to replace suspicion. Even to me, all the soldiers looked very young as we sat there together.
Heinz and Willi, both from Cologne, were 16. The German corporal, at 23, was the oldest of them all. From his food bag he drew out a bottle of red wine, and Heinz managed to find a loaf of rye bread. Mother cut that in small pieces to be served with the dinner; half the wine, however, she put away, ‘for the wounded boy.’ Then Mother said grace. I noticed that there were tears in her eyes as she said the old, familiar words, ‘Komm, Herr Jesus. Be our guest.’ And as I looked around the table, I saw tears, too, in the eyes of the battle-weary soldiers, boys again, some from America, some from Germany, all far from home.
Just before midnight, Mother went to the doorstep and asked us to join her to look up at the Star of Bethlehem. We all stood beside her except Harry, who was sleeping. For all of us, during that moment of silence, looking at the brightest star in the heavens, the war was a distant, almost-forgotten thing.”
The truce held through the morning, Christmas Day, when the two sets of soldiers shook hands and departed, each headed back to their own army.
It is likely that there were other such small scale truces, or at least tacit agreements between local American and German units to refrain from attacks and firing on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, perhaps in Italy in 1943 or in quieter parts of the line in 1944, but this is the ONLY documented case currently known.
|
THE LORDS SOLDIER: ST. NICHOLAS
The true story of Santa Claus begins with Nicholas, who was born during the third century in the village of Patara in Asia Minor. At the time the area was Greek and is now on the southern coast of Turkey. His wealthy parents, who raised him to be a devout Christian, died in an epidemic while Nicholas was still young.
His first thought was to go celebrate his inheritance with "friends" at the local tavern. But when his pocket money ran out that day, so did all the "friends". This, he soon realized was not going to last or even provide him with his missing family. That's when, as he was on his way home one evening, he heard the wailing of the women in a household. Which brings us to one of the best-known St. Nicholas stories, which is the time he saved three poor sisters from being sold into slavery/prostitution by their father (as was the prerogative of the men in a family at the time) by providing them with a dowry so that they could be married. Nicholas then threw either 3 bags of gold or three round balls of gold over the 'fence', gate or wall, that divided the family yard from the main road. He only told the monks who were watching over him, back at his home, but the word soon got out of his generosity to help those in great need.
Very quickly, Nicholas had so many people coming to ask for monies, that he and the monks had to set up a system to keep track of all the money being loaned out. Over time, this developed into a way of helping the poor, (and in much later times to helping the common man). It became known as a PAWN SHOP, and to this very day they still use the three gold balls to advertise their business of loaning monies, based on a trade of goods.
He would even put coins in the shoes of people; as it was the custom that people would put their shoes on the front steps of their homes, as they slept at night. The concept of giving gifts to others in secret grew over time and became associated with Saint Nicholas. In Europe, children leave their shoes out on December 5th in hopes of receiving treats from Saint Nicholas. This grew to
a tradition that parents would adopt at Christmas time in different countries in Europe and eventually in the Americas, where children hang stockings near a fireplace or window.
Obeying Jesus' words to "sell what you own and give the money to the poor," Nicholas used his whole inheritance over the years to assist the needy, the sick, and the suffering. He dedicated his life to serving God and was made Bishop of Myra while still a young man. Bishop Nicholas became known throughout the land for his generosity to those in need, his love for children, and his concern for sailors and ships.
Which brings us to yet another story attributed to St. Nicholas:
According to legend, St. Nicholas, often considered the patron saint of sailors, is said to have calmed a raging storm at sea while
while on a voyage, likely from his home in Myra to Alexandria.
St. Nicholas encountered a violent storm that threatened to capsize the ship and endanger the sailors. Faced with the imminent danger, Nicholas calmly prayed, and miraculously, the storm subsided, allowing the ship to reach its destination safely.
This tale signifies St. Nicholas' power over nature and his ability to protect those in need, especially sailors who often faced perilous conditions at sea.
Under the Roman Emperor Diocletian, who ruthlessly persecuted Christians, Bishop Nicholas suffered for his faith, he was exiled and imprisoned. The prisons were so full of bishops, priests, and deacons, that there was no room for the real criminals—murderers, thieves and robbers! After his release, Nicholas attended the Council of Nicaea in AD 325.
He died December 6, AD 343 in Myra, and was buried in his cathedral church, where a unique relic, called 'manna', formed in his grave! This liquid substance, said to have healing powers, fostered the growth of devotion to Nicholas. The anniversary of his death became a day of celebration, St. Nicholas Day, December 6th (December 19 if on the Julian Calendar).
Through the centuries many stories and legends have been told of St. Nicholas' life and deeds. These accounts help us understand his extraordinary character and why he is so beloved and revered as protector and helper of those in need.
His first thought was to go celebrate his inheritance with "friends" at the local tavern. But when his pocket money ran out that day, so did all the "friends". This, he soon realized was not going to last or even provide him with his missing family. That's when, as he was on his way home one evening, he heard the wailing of the women in a household. Which brings us to one of the best-known St. Nicholas stories, which is the time he saved three poor sisters from being sold into slavery/prostitution by their father (as was the prerogative of the men in a family at the time) by providing them with a dowry so that they could be married. Nicholas then threw either 3 bags of gold or three round balls of gold over the 'fence', gate or wall, that divided the family yard from the main road. He only told the monks who were watching over him, back at his home, but the word soon got out of his generosity to help those in great need.
Very quickly, Nicholas had so many people coming to ask for monies, that he and the monks had to set up a system to keep track of all the money being loaned out. Over time, this developed into a way of helping the poor, (and in much later times to helping the common man). It became known as a PAWN SHOP, and to this very day they still use the three gold balls to advertise their business of loaning monies, based on a trade of goods.
He would even put coins in the shoes of people; as it was the custom that people would put their shoes on the front steps of their homes, as they slept at night. The concept of giving gifts to others in secret grew over time and became associated with Saint Nicholas. In Europe, children leave their shoes out on December 5th in hopes of receiving treats from Saint Nicholas. This grew to
a tradition that parents would adopt at Christmas time in different countries in Europe and eventually in the Americas, where children hang stockings near a fireplace or window.
Obeying Jesus' words to "sell what you own and give the money to the poor," Nicholas used his whole inheritance over the years to assist the needy, the sick, and the suffering. He dedicated his life to serving God and was made Bishop of Myra while still a young man. Bishop Nicholas became known throughout the land for his generosity to those in need, his love for children, and his concern for sailors and ships.
Which brings us to yet another story attributed to St. Nicholas:
According to legend, St. Nicholas, often considered the patron saint of sailors, is said to have calmed a raging storm at sea while
while on a voyage, likely from his home in Myra to Alexandria.
St. Nicholas encountered a violent storm that threatened to capsize the ship and endanger the sailors. Faced with the imminent danger, Nicholas calmly prayed, and miraculously, the storm subsided, allowing the ship to reach its destination safely.
This tale signifies St. Nicholas' power over nature and his ability to protect those in need, especially sailors who often faced perilous conditions at sea.
Under the Roman Emperor Diocletian, who ruthlessly persecuted Christians, Bishop Nicholas suffered for his faith, he was exiled and imprisoned. The prisons were so full of bishops, priests, and deacons, that there was no room for the real criminals—murderers, thieves and robbers! After his release, Nicholas attended the Council of Nicaea in AD 325.
He died December 6, AD 343 in Myra, and was buried in his cathedral church, where a unique relic, called 'manna', formed in his grave! This liquid substance, said to have healing powers, fostered the growth of devotion to Nicholas. The anniversary of his death became a day of celebration, St. Nicholas Day, December 6th (December 19 if on the Julian Calendar).
Through the centuries many stories and legends have been told of St. Nicholas' life and deeds. These accounts help us understand his extraordinary character and why he is so beloved and revered as protector and helper of those in need.
- The red suit
The red Santa suit and other related clothing are thought to have been invented by modern-day marketing.
- The image of Santa in the United States
In the 19th century, the image of Santa Claus became more popular in the United States. He was often depicted as a jolly, portly man with a white beard, wearing a red coat with a white fur collar and cuffs, red trousers, a red hat, and boots. He was also often shown carrying a bag full of gifts for children.
- The image of Saint Nicholas In Europe is more closely associated with his traditional role as a bishop, with clothes that resemble his traditional religious attire.
- In the 17th century, Dutch families brought the tradition of celebrating Saint Nicholas's feast day to New Amsterdam, the present-day city called New York. They called him “Sinterklaas”, which is a shortened form of the Dutch name for Saint Nicholas, Sint Nikolaas. This name eventually became the English “Santa Claus”.
- The legend of a kindly old man
The legend of Santa Claus was also influenced by old Nordic folktales about a kindly elderly magician who rewarded good children and punished naughty ones.
ALL IN GOOD PUN
ITS SANTA...UP CLOSE
AMAZING STORIES
Every Wednesday The Weekly Genealogist provides readers with news and information about NEHGS and the genealogical community. Features include a description of the latest database
on AmericanAncestors.org, a spotlight, an editor’s column, a survey question, stories of interest, and announcements about bookstore items, educational opportunities, and special offers.
on AmericanAncestors.org, a spotlight, an editor’s column, a survey question, stories of interest, and announcements about bookstore items, educational opportunities, and special offers.
MONTH BY MONTH:
MONTH: DECEMBER
TICKLE YOUR FUNNY BONE
We are told, that as much as Santa loves his snowy Arctic home, at least once per year he likes to jump in the sleigh and head down to a tropical destination. In July and August, Santa packs his red swim shorts and books two months of vacation on a beach – usually in Hawaii, Thailand, or Australia. (I wonder if any elves ever accompany him?)
GENEALOGY GEMS
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The Genealogy Gems Podcast helps you make the most of your family history research time by providing quick and easy-to-use research techniques. Producer and host Lisa Louise Cooke brings you the best websites, best practices, and best resources available. This podcast is 100% free! Just click an episode below to start listening right now.
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IN THE PAST...AND TODAY
THE BOOK NOOK
HISTORICAL, GENEALOGICAL & RESEARCH BOOKS
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the 21st Century: A Factual and Irreverent Survey of American History from the Beginning Through the Modern Era.
Book by Peter Bales
Book by Peter Bales
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This is FREE. It's an online book...and who doesn't like free???
Anyhow, I thought maybe it would be an interesting thing to read, it deals with history....and I liked it. So I asked my committee of 3...(me, myself and I) should I or shouldn't I? The general consensus among this committee is to accept the proposal! SO I DID....enjoy
Anyhow, I thought maybe it would be an interesting thing to read, it deals with history....and I liked it. So I asked my committee of 3...(me, myself and I) should I or shouldn't I? The general consensus among this committee is to accept the proposal! SO I DID....enjoy
LEARN MORE TO KNOW MORE
A Watermelon, a Fish and a Bible: A heartwarming tale of love amid war
by Christy Lefteri (Author), Quercus (Author)
A moving novel of love and war by the author of The Beekeeper of Aleppo
It is July 1974 and on a bright, sunny morning, the Turkish army has invaded the town of Kyrenia in Cyprus. For many people, this means an end to life as they know it. But for some, it is a chance to begin living again.
Everyone has always talked about Koki. They never believed she was her father's daughter and her mother died too soon to quiet their wagging tongues. And when she became pregnant and there was no sign of a husband, her fate was sealed.
So she lives outside the town and hides from her neighbours' eyes. But, held captive with the very women who have made her life so lonely, Koki is finally able to tell them the truth. To talk of the Turkish shoe-maker who came to the town and took her heart away with him when he left. And how she has longed for him all these years.
Meanwhile, Adem Berker finds himself back in Kyrenia, his former home, now as a member of the invading force. Here he left everything he ever wanted and, by cover of darkness, risking his life, he is searching every house, every cafe, every old pathway, for just a glimpse of the only woman he has ever loved.
It is July 1974 and on a bright, sunny morning, the Turkish army has invaded the town of Kyrenia in Cyprus. For many people, this means an end to life as they know it. But for some, it is a chance to begin living again.
Everyone has always talked about Koki. They never believed she was her father's daughter and her mother died too soon to quiet their wagging tongues. And when she became pregnant and there was no sign of a husband, her fate was sealed.
So she lives outside the town and hides from her neighbours' eyes. But, held captive with the very women who have made her life so lonely, Koki is finally able to tell them the truth. To talk of the Turkish shoe-maker who came to the town and took her heart away with him when he left. And how she has longed for him all these years.
Meanwhile, Adem Berker finds himself back in Kyrenia, his former home, now as a member of the invading force. Here he left everything he ever wanted and, by cover of darkness, risking his life, he is searching every house, every cafe, every old pathway, for just a glimpse of the only woman he has ever loved.
THE REST OF THE STORY...
WHY THE AMISH PAINT THEIR BARNS RED?
from SELF-SUFFICIENCY The Amish Way
by Eddie Schwartzentruber
from SELF-SUFFICIENCY The Amish Way
by Eddie Schwartzentruber
The tradition of painting barns red has its roots during the 18th - 19th centuries in Europe and America. Initially, the barns were left unpainted, which exposed the wooden structure to harsh elements. This lack of protection meant that barns would rapidly deteriorate due to weather, moisture and pests. Farmers quickly realized they needed o safeguard their barns and extend their life spans as much as possible.
Back in the day, store-bought paint wasn't something you could just pick up at the local market like you can now. Instead farmers had to get creative and make their own protective mixtures. And one of the most popular comes from the flax plants and acts as a natural preservative. Farms would mix the linseed oil with milk, lime, and iron oxide.
The iron oxide, basically rust, wasn't just for show. Rather, it helped to kill fungi and mosses that would commonly grow on barns and cause further decay. Plus, it gave the mixture that distinctive red hue. This homemade recipe created a durable coating that had the capability to protect the wood from rot and weather damage. It proved to b a real game changer when it came to farm maintenance.
Later, as time went on, commercial paints started to become available to the general public in the 19th century. RED paint emerged as one of the most affordable options.
SO NOW, (as Paul Harvey would say), YOU KNOW THE REST OF THE STORY!
ONE RING TO RULE THEM ALL
The gold ring that has both Christian and pagan symbols engraved on it...is very strange for the simple reason that there are NO OTHER RINGS OR JEWELRY LIKE IT. They either have Christian designs or Pagan but NEVER both. And there is a Latin name engraved across it ....which has a very strange story to tell. Its only known origin story is retold using documents from various sources. (See at the end)
THE STORY BEGINS...
This piece of gold jewelry was discovered close to the once Roman town of Silchester, in Hampshire, England in 1785. After the ring was discovered in a field by a farmer, it is thought to have been sold to the Chute family who owned the Vyne.
THE VYNE...
The Vyne (from Vineyard) was transformed from a cluster of medieval buildings into a Tudor palace between 1500 and 1520 – built for William Sandys, who became Henry VIII’s Lord Chamberlain in 1526. The house was described as ‘one of the Principale Houses in all Hamptonshire’. Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn’s daughter, Elizabeth I, visited The Vyne on at least one occasion, and would have almost certainly worshiped in the same chapel as her father and mother had decades earlier.
After nearly becoming destitute
during the English Civil War, in the 17th century, The Vyne later became the residence of the Chute family. Chaloner Chute, a barrister and the Speaker of the House of Commons, reduced the building to approximately a third of its original size, and modernized it, commissioning a classical portico in 1654 – the first of its kind in England. The Chute family owned the residence up until the mid 20th century, continually developing and refurbishing it over the centuries. However, the house still includes elements of the original Tudor architecture.
The Vyne, briefly housed a girls’ boarding school in the 1920s, and during the Second World War, boys from Tormore School in Deal, Kent, were evacuated here. After Sir Charles Chute died in 1956, The Vyne was bequeathed to the National Trust, who opened the house and grounds up to the public to enjoy.
THE RING...
Interestingly, The Vyne once held an inscribed Roman ring as well as a lead (or stone) tablet that speaks of a curse of the one who stole it...
In 1929 J. R. R. Tolkien was once asked to comment on it as an expert on Anglo-Saxon history, including its connection to a mine fabled to have been dug by DWARVES. A few days later, he began writing 'Lord of the Rings'. But it was not published until 1937. The ring was held for centuries there at the VYNE by the Chute family, before it passed into the hands of The National Trust in the early 1930s. It was several decades after the farmer found the ring, before the curse was discovered on a lead tablet in Lydney, Gloucestershire, England more than 100 miles away!
THE CURSE...
The great archaeologist Sir Mortimer Wheeler, the director of later excavations at Lydney, realized the connection between the ring and the curse tablet, and in 1929 he asked J.R.R. Tolkien to work on the etymology of the name "Nodens".
(John Ronald Ruell Tolkiens was born in 1892 in South Africa and was sent to school in England after his parents died.)
The translated tablet says:
'Among those who bear the name of Senicianus to none grant health until he bring back the ring to the temple of Nodens.' "Senicianus" apparently only got as far as the field in Silchester when he abandoned (or lost) the ring.
Dr Lynn Forest-Hill, Education Officer for the Tolkien Society says: 'The influences most often cited for Tolkien’s creation of 'The One Ring' usually takes the form of literary or legendary rings such as the Ring of the Niebelungs, or The Old King’s Ring in the 14th century story of Bevis of Hampton. It is, then, a particularly fascinating thing to see the physical evidence of the Vyne Ring, with its links to Tolkien through the inscription, associating it with a curse."
'It is well known that in 1929 Tolkien worked on the etymology of the name 'Nodens' mentioned on a Roman curse tablet. 'Significantly, in the context of his non-academic writing, he would have read the Latin inscription on the curse tablet as thus:
“Deuo Nodenti Silvianus anilum perdidit …. inter quibus nomen Seniciani nollis permittas sanitatem perfera.”
[t] translated as:
“To the god Nodens: Silvianus has lost a ring….among those who bear the name Senicianus to none grant health.”
OF NOTE...
That the "name" on the ring, “SINICIANUS” which is also written in Latin as: "SINNES E ONUM" translates to: "FROM THE ONE".
The gold ring is VERY large, and is even too big to fit on a man's thumb. So it has been thought that perhaps it was worn over leather gloves.
"At the base of all fiction, therein will you find the truth."
THE STORY BEGINS...
This piece of gold jewelry was discovered close to the once Roman town of Silchester, in Hampshire, England in 1785. After the ring was discovered in a field by a farmer, it is thought to have been sold to the Chute family who owned the Vyne.
THE VYNE...
The Vyne (from Vineyard) was transformed from a cluster of medieval buildings into a Tudor palace between 1500 and 1520 – built for William Sandys, who became Henry VIII’s Lord Chamberlain in 1526. The house was described as ‘one of the Principale Houses in all Hamptonshire’. Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn’s daughter, Elizabeth I, visited The Vyne on at least one occasion, and would have almost certainly worshiped in the same chapel as her father and mother had decades earlier.
After nearly becoming destitute
during the English Civil War, in the 17th century, The Vyne later became the residence of the Chute family. Chaloner Chute, a barrister and the Speaker of the House of Commons, reduced the building to approximately a third of its original size, and modernized it, commissioning a classical portico in 1654 – the first of its kind in England. The Chute family owned the residence up until the mid 20th century, continually developing and refurbishing it over the centuries. However, the house still includes elements of the original Tudor architecture.
The Vyne, briefly housed a girls’ boarding school in the 1920s, and during the Second World War, boys from Tormore School in Deal, Kent, were evacuated here. After Sir Charles Chute died in 1956, The Vyne was bequeathed to the National Trust, who opened the house and grounds up to the public to enjoy.
THE RING...
Interestingly, The Vyne once held an inscribed Roman ring as well as a lead (or stone) tablet that speaks of a curse of the one who stole it...
In 1929 J. R. R. Tolkien was once asked to comment on it as an expert on Anglo-Saxon history, including its connection to a mine fabled to have been dug by DWARVES. A few days later, he began writing 'Lord of the Rings'. But it was not published until 1937. The ring was held for centuries there at the VYNE by the Chute family, before it passed into the hands of The National Trust in the early 1930s. It was several decades after the farmer found the ring, before the curse was discovered on a lead tablet in Lydney, Gloucestershire, England more than 100 miles away!
THE CURSE...
The great archaeologist Sir Mortimer Wheeler, the director of later excavations at Lydney, realized the connection between the ring and the curse tablet, and in 1929 he asked J.R.R. Tolkien to work on the etymology of the name "Nodens".
(John Ronald Ruell Tolkiens was born in 1892 in South Africa and was sent to school in England after his parents died.)
The translated tablet says:
'Among those who bear the name of Senicianus to none grant health until he bring back the ring to the temple of Nodens.' "Senicianus" apparently only got as far as the field in Silchester when he abandoned (or lost) the ring.
Dr Lynn Forest-Hill, Education Officer for the Tolkien Society says: 'The influences most often cited for Tolkien’s creation of 'The One Ring' usually takes the form of literary or legendary rings such as the Ring of the Niebelungs, or The Old King’s Ring in the 14th century story of Bevis of Hampton. It is, then, a particularly fascinating thing to see the physical evidence of the Vyne Ring, with its links to Tolkien through the inscription, associating it with a curse."
'It is well known that in 1929 Tolkien worked on the etymology of the name 'Nodens' mentioned on a Roman curse tablet. 'Significantly, in the context of his non-academic writing, he would have read the Latin inscription on the curse tablet as thus:
“Deuo Nodenti Silvianus anilum perdidit …. inter quibus nomen Seniciani nollis permittas sanitatem perfera.”
[t] translated as:
“To the god Nodens: Silvianus has lost a ring….among those who bear the name Senicianus to none grant health.”
OF NOTE...
That the "name" on the ring, “SINICIANUS” which is also written in Latin as: "SINNES E ONUM" translates to: "FROM THE ONE".
The gold ring is VERY large, and is even too big to fit on a man's thumb. So it has been thought that perhaps it was worn over leather gloves.
"At the base of all fiction, therein will you find the truth."
********************************
Found in THE TV RECORDS OF: MYSTERIES OF THE UNKNOWN The Travel Channel, USA -Don Wildman, narrator
THE LOST COMPASS/ TRUTH BEHIND THE RING
Aired: 11/18/2024 - S3 E8
And Substantiated in:
THE VYNE: The National Trust- https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk
also on...
HISTORY HIT: THE VYNE https://www.historyhit.com
*******************************
Found in THE TV RECORDS OF: MYSTERIES OF THE UNKNOWN The Travel Channel, USA -Don Wildman, narrator
THE LOST COMPASS/ TRUTH BEHIND THE RING
Aired: 11/18/2024 - S3 E8
And Substantiated in:
THE VYNE: The National Trust- https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk
also on...
HISTORY HIT: THE VYNE https://www.historyhit.com
*******************************
'Rediviva'... its second hand
HISTORICAL AND MODERN
HISTORY OF SAGINAW COUNTY - VOL. I
by James Cooke Mills
VOL I: Is composed of two books. Book 1 is comprised of chapters I-XV (1-15) and deals with Local History, Book 2 consists of Chapters XVI-XXV (16-25) and deals with Industrial History. They are bound complete within this VOL I. Historical knowledge is different than biographical information in that
a History is a record of Human Events.
a History is a record of Human Events.
WALL ART...to frame or put in a memory book...just nice to have!
HISTORY OF SAGINAW COUNTY - VOL II
by James Cooke Mills
VOL II: Is also composed of two books, Book 3 consists of Biographies of Representative Citizens of Saginaw County, Michigan. Book 4 comprises a listing of Townships and Towns and is bound complete within VOL II. NOTE: A Biography differs from historical information in that it is a record of Individual Endeavor.
***
NOTE: THESE WILL BOTH BE FREE TO VIEW ON OUR WEBSITE IN JANUARY OR YOU CAN DOWNLOAD IT NOW TO YOUR PC.
(sorry, I am building the webpage for it, and as I have had several people ask for it NOW... here it is!)
***
NOTE: THESE WILL BOTH BE FREE TO VIEW ON OUR WEBSITE IN JANUARY OR YOU CAN DOWNLOAD IT NOW TO YOUR PC.
(sorry, I am building the webpage for it, and as I have had several people ask for it NOW... here it is!)
SAVING THE BEST FOR LAST
WHAT DID YOU SEE?
SO HOW OBSERVANT ARE YOU?
WHAT DID YOU SEE?
DID YOU NOTICE THE:
PEARS?
YEAH, WELL WE WEREN'T LOOKING FOR THEM. WHAT WE WERE LOOKING FOR IS THE
PAIR OF CHRISTMAS SOCKS!
(Oh, BTW there is just one pair)
WHAT DID YOU SEE?
DID YOU NOTICE THE:
PEARS?
YEAH, WELL WE WEREN'T LOOKING FOR THEM. WHAT WE WERE LOOKING FOR IS THE
PAIR OF CHRISTMAS SOCKS!
(Oh, BTW there is just one pair)
This one doesn't show up on the list above. So I am including a brief info about it here. Its called a Black Worcester, 'Black Worcester' was recorded as being grown by monks at the Abbey of Bedfordshire as early as 1388. As a long keeping fruit, it formed an important part of the winter diet until root-crops were introduced. The fruit is larger than average and the flesh hard and coarse, but is reported to be excellent when stewed.
OF SPECIAL NOTE:
Mr John K Riselay noticed that our email was not working. WE CHECKED IT OUT, AND SURE ENOUGH....IT WASN'T!
So, in response to his attention to detail, and to show our gratitude for his help, we are awarding him one FREE year of membership to the SGS along with all the privileges that our Membership shares in:
1. MEMBER ONLY Voting for leadership and Board members in April.
2. MEMBER ONLY Access to the TimberTown Log Archives
3. MEMBER ONLY Access to the Saginaw News Archives.
4. MEMBER ONLY Access soon to all the WHAT'S NEW Archives (Still a work in progress) I AM WORKING ON IT ...HONEST!
A BIG THANK YOU TO JOHN FOR YOUR HELP IN NOTICING & ALERTING US THAT OUR EMAIL WAS NOT WORKING!
So, in response to his attention to detail, and to show our gratitude for his help, we are awarding him one FREE year of membership to the SGS along with all the privileges that our Membership shares in:
1. MEMBER ONLY Voting for leadership and Board members in April.
2. MEMBER ONLY Access to the TimberTown Log Archives
3. MEMBER ONLY Access to the Saginaw News Archives.
4. MEMBER ONLY Access soon to all the WHAT'S NEW Archives (Still a work in progress) I AM WORKING ON IT ...HONEST!
A BIG THANK YOU TO JOHN FOR YOUR HELP IN NOTICING & ALERTING US THAT OUR EMAIL WAS NOT WORKING!
NEWS ITEMS OR LINKS CAN BE SENT TO US FOR CONSIDERATION AT :
[email protected]
[email protected]