Earlier today, I had posted information on how candles used to be used as alarm clocks on my social media (scroll down a little to see the info on that post). And then, I got to thinking. Victoria – why not do a little more research on how candles have been used in homes throughout the centuries?
And then, I came across information on candles in windows. Personally, I really only thought that they were used in windows during Christmas time – but I stand corrected! Candles have actually been used in windows since Colonial times (think Paul Revere). So, here is some information I found on how candles have been used in windows over the centuries, and the significance.
- To direct a beacon home. Especially during Colonial times, a candle was placed in the front window of a home so a family member would find their way home safely after dark. Remember, there was no electricity during these times (not even street lights).
- To welcome travelers. Many homes were significantly distanced apart – sometimes by miles! A candle was a welcome sight to anyone who was traveling – it met anyone could stop in, have a meal, chat or simply have a warm place to sleep.
- To “light the way for soldiers”. During the Revolutionary War, whenever a soldier would go to war, his family which was left behind would light a candle every night he was gone. In retrospect, for those soldiers who never came home, many families continued that tradition of lighting the candle in the window each night in remembrance of the soldier who would never return.
Of course, candles have been used since Colonial times to represent Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hannukah and probably some other religious holidays.
Oh, and if you need a home that would look great decorated with candles, I bet we can find one together!
Even a little more info on candles
I had posted this little tidbit of info on my social media earlier, but wanted to share it in other channels ????
Before alarm clocks existed, people used nails attached to candles to ensure they would wake up on time. They knew how to calculate the burning time and put the nail in the right place.
When the candle melted, the nail fell, made noise and woke up its owner.
Not really a good idea to have a burning candle while you’re sleeping – but I really thought this was quite interesting! Much better than having to wake up to that annoying “beeeeeeeepppppp beeeeeeeeeeppppppp”
Been thinking of moving to Greenville? Looking to upgrade or downsize your home? You have to choose the right realtor when it comes to making all of your real estate decisions.
Maybe you’ve recently visited Greenville and fell in love (I know, it’s hard not to!), or maybe you’ve lived here for years and just need to upgrade or downsize your home. Choose a realtor who will fight for you. One that will help you sell that nest you’re in right now, and simply find you a new one to build up and call “home”.
Ready to talk about purchasing a home this spring? I’d love to chat with you! We’ll find your dream home – together! Sellers – don’t forget to contact me in regards to selling your home too! My email is thevictoriacottlegroup@gmail.com, and my direct phone is (864) 275-3953.
Did you know this about Greenville?
Here’s some local updates on our area!
Have you heard about the new entertainment district? Developers are hoping to break ground towards the end of this year, but it’ll include the following and will be located at North Church and East North Streets.
- Two towers (one 16-story and one seven-story)
- 294 apartments
- 8,000 sqft of restaurant and retail space
- Creative studios
- A 300+ car parking garage
An Immersive Sound Healing Experience | Saturday, Mar. 25 | 11 a.m. | The People’s Tap, 250 RiverPlace, Greenville | $18 | Bring your mats, pillows, bolsters, and blankets for a holistic healing session with sound bowls.
Networking Schmetworking | Tuesday, Mar. 28 | 5:30-9 p.m. | Gather GVL, 126 Augusta St., Greenville | Free entry | Leave with a friend, not a business card at Gather GVL’s new monthly event for Greenville young professionals.
Construction on the 125-ft Honor Tower at Unity Park is scheduled to begin this August and last 12-14 months, which means views from the 10-story structure could debut next year. (The Post and Courier Greenville)
8,000,000. That’s how many gallons of water the City of Greenville says it saved in 2022. A task force dedicated to improving the city’s sustainability identified opportunities to fix water leaks and breaks, install rain sensors to irrigate parks less, and turn off fountains and water lines during freezes to prevent bursts.
About Victoria
People are on the move and I am ready to help you buy or sell in the Greenville area. Please contact Victoria Cottle by email thevictoriacottlegroup@gmail.com or call (864) 275-3953 for your real estate needs in the Upstate of South Carolina! You can also always follow me on Facebook!
Victoria Cottle is a Realtor® in the Greenville South Carolina area and if you, a friend, or a family member need assistance with selling or buying a home I can help. Referrals and people needing relocation assistance are welcome! Search Single Family homes in Greenville. Search Condos and Townhomes in Greenville.