Why are British Pubs Named After Animals?
Towns and villages across the United Kingdom have had pubs for hundreds of years. These establishments have been an integral part of local communities, serving as gathering places for social interactions and festivities. In the early days, a lot of locals would have been illiterate or semi-literate, so an easily recognizable picture on a signpost would have helped identify which pub they were meeting at. This tradition of using pictorial signs led to a proliferation of pub names inspired by various animals, as these were easy to recognize.
Origins of Animal-Named Pubs
Not all public houses (pubs) are named after animals, but some well-known examples include The Rhubarb, named after a rhubarb farm that used to be nearby, and The Stillage, because it used to make its own gin back in Victorian times. Other examples are The Fire Engine, from an old term for a pumping engine used to take water from a local mine, and The Nelson, named after the famous Admiral Nelson of the Battle of Trafalgar.
However, there's a reason why a substantial number of these establishments bear animal names. During the time when a significant portion of the population were illiterate, pub owners would display signs with pictures on them to indicate the names of their establishments. Animals were among the easiest images to recognize, making animal-named pubs a common sight in British towns and villages.
The Case of the Giraffe Pub
A notable example of an animal-named pub is the Giraffe, located about a 10-minute walk from a listed historical site. It's worth noting that while the original Giraffe pub no longer exists (it was demolished 10 years ago to make way for private flats), other establishments retain their animal names. Some pubs are named after specific historical or local links, such as the Dog and Duck. In the 18th century, there were contests in parts of London where trained dogs were made to kill ducks, leading to the Dog and Duck name.
Historical Context
The tradition of naming pubs after animals has deeper roots in British history. For instance, some pubs were named after bear-baiting pits, where bears were made to fight other animals for entertainment. These specific locales were significant in the era of bear-baiting, where such spectacles were common.
Understanding the history of British pubs, including why they are named after animals, provides a fascinating insight into the culture and traditions of the United Kingdom. So, the next time you visit a pub with an animal name, you can appreciate the reason behind the name and the rich history it represents.
In summary, British pubs named after animals have a rich cultural history deeply rooted in the traditions of British communities. Whether it's The Fire Engine, The Nelson, or The Giraffe, these names reflect the local heritage and provide a glimpse into bygone eras.