The Easter Bunny

The Easter bunny has it origin in pre-Christian fertility lore. The Hare and the

Rabbit were the most fertile animals known and they served as symbols of the new life during the Spring season.

The bunny as an Easter symbol seems to have it's origins in Germany, where it was first mentioned in German writings in the 1500's.

The first edible Easter bunnies were made in Germany during the early 1800's. They were made of pastry and sugar.

The Easter bunny was introduced to American folklore by the German settlers who arrived in the Pennsylvania Dutch country during the 1700's.

The children believed that if they were good the "Oschter Haws" would lay a nest of colored eggs. The children would build their nest in a secluded place in the home in the barn or the garden. Boys would use their caps and girls their bonnets to make the nests.

The use of Easter baskets did not come into existence until much later after the tradition had spread throughout the country.

Of course we can't discuss the Easter Bunny without mentioning his song.

Peter Cottontail

Here comes Peter Cottontail,
Hoppin done the bunny trail,
Hippity, hoppity,
Easter's on its way.

Bringin' every girl and boy Baskets full of Easter joy,
Things to make your Easter bright and gay.
He's got jelly beans for Tommy,
Colored eggs for sister Sue,
There's an orchid for your Mommy
And an Easter bonnet, too.

Oh! Here comes Peter Cottontail,
Hoppin'Down the bunny trail,
Hippity hoppity,
Happy easter day.

Oh! Here comes Peter Cottontail,
Hoppin'Down the bunny trail,
Look at him stop, "Try to do the things you should."
Maybe if you're extra good,
He'll roll lots of Easter eggs your way.

You'll wake up on easter morning
And you'll know that he was there
when you find those choc'late bunnies
That he's hiding ev'rywhere.

Oh! Here comes Peter Cottontail,
Hoppin'Down the bunny trail,
Hippity hoppity,
Happy easter day.

Throughout history there have been some famous rabbits.

Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter

This was the story of four little rabbits names Flopsy, Mopsy, Cottontail, and Peter.

The story goes on to tell you about the trouble Peter got into by not obeying his mother and going to Mr. McGregor's garden.

Harvey

This is one of the best movies Jimmy Stewart ever made (IMHO). He plays the part of of a happily inebriated but gentle philosopher who enjoys nothing more than sharing life's little pleasures with others. He just so happens to have an invisible friend, Harvey, who is a 6 ft rabbit. If you have not seen this movie please do. It's great!

To learn more about the Easter Holiday please click on the next button.

�2000 By Mary D of Simple Elegance