The original Druids were priest-like figures in Iron Age Celtic paganism. Many elements of ancient druidism still exist as quasi-religious sects. “Modern” Druidism was born in the late 1700s in England pubs. It borrowed iconography and semantics from the ancients but little else. The Ancient Order of Druids’ motto was Justice, Philanthropy and Brotherly Love. […]
Month: April 2025
Frederick Sieg: Founding Druid
Frederick Sieg “planted the Druidic oak on the western shores of the nation.” He founded California Grove #1 of the United Ancient Order of Druids in 1859 and helped found and lead the state organization. Sieg was one of the earliest settlers in Placerville. He went to work with his gold pan in Cedar Ravine […]
Headstone Symbols: The Anchor and the Cross
The “anchor and the cross” is an intriguing tombstone symbol. What does it mean? An anchor often appears on the gravestones of sailors to commemorate a life at sea. But the cross changes its meaning. The anchor-embellished cross is typically a religious symbol; a reminder to be anchored in faith, hope and love while engaging […]
Headstone Symbols: Woman at the Well
The story of the woman at the well is one of the most iconic encounters in the Bible. It depicts Jesus meeting a Samaritan woman at a well and asking her for a drink of water. The ensuing conversation leads to her acceptance of a Jewish God. The encounter was unusual because Jews and Samaritans […]