What Is An Interesting Fact About Homecoming Mums?

What is an Interesting Fact About Homecoming Mums?

Homecoming mums are a cherished tradition in many parts of the United States, especially in Texas. These elaborate floral arrangements, often adorned with ribbons, trinkets, and school spirit memorabilia, serve as a symbol of school pride and a special keepsake for students. However, beyond their vibrant appearance and sentimental value, homecoming mums hold a few intriguing facts that may surprise you.

The Origin of Homecoming Mums

While the exact origins of homecoming mums are not entirely clear, one popular theory traces their roots back to the early 20th century in Corsicana, Texas. In 1910, two Corsicana High School students, Howard Buzbee and Claude Harris, were tasked with finding a way to raise money for their school’s football team. They came up with the idea of selling flowers to the football players, who would then give the flowers to their dates as a token of appreciation. This gesture quickly gained popularity, and by the 1920s, homecoming mums had become a widespread tradition.

The Evolution of Homecoming Mums

Over the decades, homecoming mums have undergone significant evolution. Initially, they were simple corsages made of chrysanthemums, hence the name “mums.” As time passed, however, mums became more elaborate, incorporating a variety of flowers, ribbons, and other embellishments. Today, homecoming mums can be as small as a traditional corsage or as large as a bouquet, with some weighing several pounds.

The Meaning of Homecoming Mums

Homecoming mums are more than just a decorative accessory; they are a symbol of school pride and a cherished keepsake. The flowers and ribbons often represent the school’s colors, while the trinkets and other items attached to the mum can have special meaning to the recipient. For example, a student may add a charm that represents their favorite subject or a photo of their friends. Homecoming mums are also a way for students to express their individuality and creativity, showcasing their personal style and interests.

The Tradition of Gartering Homecoming Mums

In addition to their symbolic value, homecoming mums also play a role in a unique tradition known as “gartering.” On the night of homecoming, the football players typically gather at the school’s football field, where they wait for their dates to arrive. As each girl arrives, the football player she is accompanying places her mum on his garter. This tradition symbolizes the couple’s bond and their shared experience of the homecoming festivities.

The Homecoming Mum Auction

In some schools, homecoming mums are not only a source of pride but also a way to raise funds for various school activities. Homecoming mum auctions are held before the big event, where students can bid on elaborate mums created by local florists or clubs. The proceeds from these auctions often benefit the school’s athletic programs, scholarships, or other initiatives.

Conclusion

Homecoming mums are a cherished tradition that brings together school pride, creativity, and sentimentality. From their humble beginnings as simple corsages to the elaborate creations we see today, homecoming mums have evolved into a symbol of the special bond between students and their school.

Questions and Answers

Q: What is the origin of the homecoming mum tradition?
A: It is believed to have originated in Corsicana, Texas, in the early 20th century as a way to raise funds for the school’s football team.

Q: What is the significance of the gartering tradition?
A: It symbolizes the bond between the football player and his date, as well as their shared experience of the homecoming festivities.

Q: Are homecoming mums only popular in Texas?
A: While they are most prevalent in Texas, homecoming mums are also popular in other parts of the United States, particularly in the South.

Q: How much do homecoming mums typically cost?
A: The cost of homecoming mums varies depending on their size and complexity, but they can range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars.

Q: Do homecoming mums have to be made of chrysanthemums?
A: No, while chrysanthemums were the original flowers used, homecoming mums can now be made from a variety of flowers, including roses, orchids, and lilies.