Today is St. George’s Day, the patron saint of England. It’s also someone’s birthday, but I’ll let you guess who.

Told since the days of the Crusades and Hundred Years’ War, the ledged of St. George tells the story of a brave soldier who slew a dragon. St George’s Day feast day is celebrated on April 23, commemorating the anniversary of his death in 303 AD.

St George never actually set foot in England. Born in what is now Turkey, he spent his life in the Middle East and served as a Roman soldier, who was finally martyred for his faith. His connection with fighting a dragon to save a kings daughter came much later. During the period, dragons often symbolized the devil, so the story was a symbol of good vs. evil.

Geography not withstanding, due to his bravery and courage, England (an several other countries) adopted St. George as its patron saint. King Edward III established the Order of the Garter in St. George’s name in the late 1340s. Following England’s victory at Agincourt in 1415, Archbishop Chichele raised the celebration of St George to a Double Feast.

How about a free crochet pattern in celebrate St. George’s day?