West Moss-Side Organic Farm - 3-Legged St Brigid Cross

1st February is St Brigid's Day. St Brigid is an Irish Saint who has quite a portfolio but mainly associated with women and the home, and children - children whose parents are not married, children whose mothers are mistreated by the children's fathers, milkmaids, fugitives, midwives, nuns, poets, the poor, poultry farmers.

St Brigid's day is also the gaelic festival Imboig day and marks the beginning of Spring being halfway between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. It is a day for celebration of healing, light, and creativity. Something we all need. Traditionally St Brigid crosses were hung at the threshold of the house, in the window or the barn to bring protection for people and stock to welcome Brigid and for protection against fire, lightning, illness and evil spirits. They were left all year and only replaced the following year.

The cross is made from soft rush (Juncus effusus) and measures approximately 24 cms

The wet fields of West Moss-side grow great rushes! Each year I make both 4 legged and 3 legged crosses the traditional way. I can also teach people to make them on a 1/2 day workshop - not this year sadly.