subject: A Short History Of Decorative Walking Canes [print this page] A Short History Of Decorative Walking Canes
Walking canes and sticks probably go back to the beginning of mankind. I'm sure you all have seen movies or pictures of a cave man, a Biblical figure, or a wizard carrying some sort of staff or stick. The cave man most likely used his stick as a weapon, while the shepherd would use his for protection. I'm sure you can recall seeing a picture of a shepherd pulling a lamb out of a bush with the crook of his cane. Of course, in the movies, the wizard would use his staff to cast spells or do whatever the situation warranted.
Early on in history, canes were probably used more as weapons and for protection than anything else. After all, they can be pretty handy even nowadays to chase an angry stray dog away when you're taking an evening walk. As societies and cultures evolved so did the use for some sort of stick or staff. Although, the basic purposes remained the same, the staff or cane itself evolved into a symbol of power. If you go back in your mind's eye, you can recall the different images of kings and queens who had beautiful scepters and staffs. There are even hieroglyphs in various parts of the world of people with staffs, and of course Hollywood has made the ones used in their movies very beautiful and ornate.
As time went by, the basic uses for the walking cane still stayed the same. But the sticks themselves started to change again. In the 1700's they started getting more decorative and refined looking. People would use them as a status symbol. If you were going out for the evening, your outfit wasn't complete unless you had your walking cane and maybe a nice hat. Here in early America, the Puritans passed laws that didn't allow displays of wealth or extravagant dress, so the cane as an accessory died out. Then they started to regain popularity as an accessory in the mid 1900's as dancers and entertainers used them in their shows.
In modern times, most people think of a walking cane as a medical device only, and maybe look down on those who use one. It shouldn't be that way. If you use one be proud of it. With all the beautiful designs and styles that are available, you can walk around with your head held high. Throw that ugly looking hospital cane out and see what's available here at MisterCane.com. We have what you're looking for at excellent prices with fast FREE shipping.
