Wednesday, November 5, 2003

So what is the origin of the expression: Indian Summer ---

Some speculate the weather phenomenon is named after the Native
Americans because they were the first to recognize the pattern. They
used the mild weather to hunt and harvest crops in preparation for the
winter. Another theory suggests the name was inspired by the Native
American belief that the favorable winds were a gift from a god in the
desert Southwest. Still another possibility is that the weather pattern
was so-named because it occurred more frequently out west, in "Indian"
territory, than it did back east. And one rather prejudicial explanation
suggests that in this context, "Indian" is used to mean false, so an
"Indian Summer" is a false summer.

I doubt we will ever know the real origin...

Nevertheless I, hopefully like you, have been so enjoying this time of
year...a respite if there ever was one. It has inspired me and the walks
have afforded me an opportunity to show my appreciation.

jim