Isn't it worrying how time passes so quickly? One minute it's Christmas, you're running around collecting and dropping off presents, remembering to order the turkey and dodging the snow, the next it's New Years and the kids are back to school leaving you to tidy up. We then seem to rush through the cold months of January and February, and, before you know it, it's Easter; the house is full, there's chocolate on every surface and it's time to put on yet another dazzling three-course dinner for all and sundry. It may sound like I'm complaining, I guess I am, but then I should also admit that I LOVE chocolate! Cadburys, Nestle, Lindt, Galaxy - you name it - for I guarantee that I'll be the first to say 'yes please'! But how did it all start? Why an egg at Easter? and why a chocolate egg at that? Let's take a look back in time to see what facts we can uncover after-all, this is in the name of chocolate and all things cocoa.
Interestingly, a chocolate egg at Easter is not as contemporary as you all may think. Oh no, in actual fact, they first appeared on the scenes in the early 1800's, eventually becoming an item of mass production towards the beginning of the 1900's. And there's no guessing as to who began the revolution is there? Of course not, how could it be anyone else but Cadburys?
As for the age-old question that pops up time and time again (why an egg?), well that's an easy one to answer. The egg shape itself has always been a symbol of new life and fertility throughout time, as well as across many different countries and cultures. It is particularly symbolic at this time of year in the UK as it represents new life and changing seasons.
The actual act of giving an egg at Easter dates back even further, incredibly to the Middle Ages. It was also customary to decorate your egg (which would have mainly been duck or goose back then); a creative tradition that still exists to this day, just like Easter Egg hunts. Apparently, the infamous hunts began at around this time in history too as parents would hide eggs for their children to find as a way of lightening the somber mood of Lent.
So, with Cadburys promoting the mass-production of the chocolate Easter Egg, it wasn't long before other companies joined the band wagon. By the 1960's, the hollow and molded Easter Egg became the most popular Easter gift worldwide: it still is until this very day.
If you're looking for a special Easter treat this year then why not head on down to the luxurious private member's club, Home House in London. Not only will there be a truly scrumptious three-course meal for the adults, but a thoroughly entertaining Easter Egg hunt for the children is set to get under way on the day as well. Don't forget to call to book your table in advance.
Interestingly, a chocolate egg at Easter is not as contemporary as you all may think. Oh no, in actual fact, they first appeared on the scenes in the early 1800's, eventually becoming an item of mass production towards the beginning of the 1900's. And there's no guessing as to who began the revolution is there? Of course not, how could it be anyone else but Cadburys?
As for the age-old question that pops up time and time again (why an egg?), well that's an easy one to answer. The egg shape itself has always been a symbol of new life and fertility throughout time, as well as across many different countries and cultures. It is particularly symbolic at this time of year in the UK as it represents new life and changing seasons.
The actual act of giving an egg at Easter dates back even further, incredibly to the Middle Ages. It was also customary to decorate your egg (which would have mainly been duck or goose back then); a creative tradition that still exists to this day, just like Easter Egg hunts. Apparently, the infamous hunts began at around this time in history too as parents would hide eggs for their children to find as a way of lightening the somber mood of Lent.
So, with Cadburys promoting the mass-production of the chocolate Easter Egg, it wasn't long before other companies joined the band wagon. By the 1960's, the hollow and molded Easter Egg became the most popular Easter gift worldwide: it still is until this very day.
If you're looking for a special Easter treat this year then why not head on down to the luxurious private member's club, Home House in London. Not only will there be a truly scrumptious three-course meal for the adults, but a thoroughly entertaining Easter Egg hunt for the children is set to get under way on the day as well. Don't forget to call to book your table in advance.
About the Author:
Home House is a private members club for people from all walks of life, which is part of its charm. Quite unlike many other private membership clubs, Home House is a place to enjoy leisure time or the perfect spot for a working day. Home House hosts London's best traditional Easter Egg hunt.
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