I thought today’s post would be filled with different Leap Year trivia and traditions, but I soon narrowed it down to one.  As I was looking for leap year material, I kept pulling up valentines. It seemed strange to me, but I didn’t know the history!

In Western culture, leap year was a time for women to propose to men.

This originated in fifth century Ireland, when St. Bridget pleaded with St. Patrick to give women an opportunity to propose to men. The idea was so popular, it soon moved beyond the borders of the Emerald Isle.  At times, other countries adapted it slightly. In Scotland, for instance, a woman who intended to propose to a man was supposed to wear a red petticoat. They couldn’t say they hadn’t been warned!

In Denmark, a man who refused a leap day proposal was forced to buy the disappointed lady twelve pairs of gloves.

 

I can imagine many men would have been fans of leap year days.

 

Nevertheless, it wasn’t a universally happy time for all females. The next picture features Gladys Santiago, who was the guest of honor as “Leap Year’s Little Lady”.  She seems to be doing pretty well but she was sad because she wouldn’t have another birthday for four long years!