Description: Originally the Maypole represented a Pagan symbol of fertility celebrating sexuality and life, which was decorated mostly with flowers and wild garlands. The ancient Britons erected Maypoles even before Claudius and the Roman invasion (AD 43) and adorned them with flowers. The May Dance is of ancient origin, as it dates back to the dancing at the 'Feast of Flora.'(Flora was the goddess of flowers, and festivals in her honour were held the last of April and the first of May, as in Robin Hoods Day). Originally, in celebrating the rites of Spring, the girls entering womanhood would be gathered up and allowed to participate in the making of the Maypole and its dances. Each Village or town would get a ribbon with a unique pattern, and May Blossom was placed atop the pole. During the dance the younger girls were on the inside and the older on the outer rim. The older girls would form some of the prettiest rings around the Maypole and if the ribbon did not break it would bring great luck upon the village. The Maypole was from twelve to sixty feet in height, usually made from a tree and was bestudded with pins to the top, which were hung with garlands and streamers. The May-Queen was crowned and she reigned with absolute power to reward or punish whomsoever she pleased. She awarded prizes to the most graceful dancers and to those who excelled in the other games, and if she choose, could resign her throne for a time to maid Marion, and take part in the dance herself. (information from www.streetswing.com)