Unraveling the Origins of 'Piggly Wiggly' and 'Piggy Bank': An Excavation of Their Histories
The terms 'Piggly Wiggly' and 'piggy bank' are seemingly simple but carry rich histories, often misconstrued in popular culture. This article delves into the fascinating background of these terms, providing a comprehensive overview of their origins.
Where Did the Name 'Piggly Wiggly' Come From?
The original name of this iconic American supermarket chain was the Piggly Wiggly Corporation. Founded in Memphis, Tennessee, by Clarence Saunders in 1916, the term 'Piggly Wiggly' was an imaginative creation. According to Saunders, the name originated from the sound he envisioned the checkout machines would make as they counted out customers' change.
The first store opened on September 6, 1916, and the brand quickly grew. Today, it boasts over 600 locations in 18 states, pioneering the concept of the self-service grocery store. Initial stores featured a system known as "Pay as You Pare," where customers paid as they packed their items. This innovation not only revolutionized the retail industry but also led to the rise of modern self-service supermarkets.
Decoding the Meaning Behind 'Piggy Bank'
The etymology of 'piggy bank' is shrouded in mystery. While many popular sources assert that it derives from 'pygg,' an orange clay, the truth is rather more complex.
There is substantial evidence that piggy banks have existed for centuries, dating back to at least the 8th century BCE when people kept coins in various containers. However, the name 'piggy bank' itself is a relatively recent invention. The term 'pygg' is an archaic word for clay, and it is possible that early piggy banks were made from earthenware. However, the transformation from 'pygg bank' to 'pig bank' and eventually 'piggy bank' is not well-documented.
According to The Merriam-Webster Dictionary and the Oxford English Dictionary, the term 'piggy bank' likely originates from the word 'piggy' and has its roots in the 20th century. This theory suggests that 'pig' is a rather playful or loresimply term that gained popularity as a name for these small containers.
Unveiling the History of Piggy Banks
The concept of piggy banks is much older than the term suggests. Ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, had coin containers similar in function. These primitive piggy banks were made of various materials, such as cloth, clay, wood, or metal. Archaeological findings have provided evidence of such containers, with some dating back to the early 8th century BCE.
In England, these containers were often earthenware jars, but there is no significant historical tradition suggesting that these jars were in the shape of pigs. The term 'piggy bank' became more common in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the United States, likely due to German immigrants and their influence on the American retail market. Money boxes in the shape of pigs were already known in Europe, particularly in Germany, long before this term gained popularity.
Conclusion
Both 'Piggly Wiggly' and 'piggy bank' have intriguing histories that are often oversimplified in popular discourse. While 'Piggly Wiggly' is credited to Clarence Saunders and his imaginative use of sound, 'piggy bank' remains a mystery, with theories ranging from clay to earthenware. Understanding these terms' origins offers a glimpse into the evolution of modern retail and savings habits.