Rooted In Thistle

Here in Texas the Thistle is considered a weed.  None the less, I have always been attracted to this wild weed that grows along the byways and highways of Texas, where I have come to a screeching halt on a narrow two lane, back country road to photograph this stickery plant with it's spikey purple bloom.

Back in 1982 I painted 'The Thistle' in watercolor, and even then thought, "Sue, who does this for a weed?"

As with many of the 'idosyncra-crazy's of 'Me', the 'Thistle Fascination' has come to light in my later years.  Funny how that happens when you least expect it, especially when you are digging up bones.

Not literally, of course, but through genealogy research.  Yep, there are ancient 'Weeds' growing around my 'Family Tree' with the roots reaching from Texas to Georgia to Jamestown, Virginia and across the Atlantic to Scotland.  'The Thistle' is the National Flower of Scotland.

There's more...'The Thistle' is the symbol for 'The Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle which is an 'order of chivalry founded in 1687 by King James VII of Scotland.

What is the connection? 

 I am a descendent of Sir John Napier, a Knight of the Order of The Thistle.   

You can read about my 'Thistle Roots' on 'Tracks of My Georgia Ancestors' 

America to Scotland...Rene the Link 

Now that I know my 'Thistle Fascination' is part of my DNA, collecting 'Thistle Thingys' is now justified, and just when my collections are on the 'Downsizing List'.  I think you will agree though, that my latest Thistle Find won't take up too much room and is certainly worthy of being added to my Family Tree Heirlooms. 

Thistle Earrings by Scottish Silversmith John Hart.

Signed 'Iona' with JH monogram stamp

Silver ~ made 1940-1950 ~ value $50-$75

Found at Goodwill for $1.99

Linked to Tracks of Georgia Ancestors
Page Tab...Family Jewels