Awakenings: The Brolly, Gamp or Bumbershoot

What ARE we celebrating today?

Could this little flower have been
a spark for the idea of the umbrella?
Image Source: flickr.com

There are many items in existence whose names have changed (not to protect the innocent) from one century to the next. Such is the case for today's celebration. If you are not familiar with the brolly, gamp or bumbershoot, what about the parapluie, rainshade or umbrolly? Another name is the sunshade (not to be confused with sun glasses), parasol and of course, the giveaway is the fact February 10th is . . .

National Umbrella Day!

Umbrella Ceiling
Image Source: indulgy.com

Umbrellas are actually over 4,000 years old first being used as shields from the sun, instead of rain as we normally use them today. They are remarkably versatile, as well as being an effective accessory for protection from wind, rain and sun. Whatever the weather, Umbrella Day is a spiffy way to sport a fetching brolly when you’re out and about! If you don't go out or do not have an umbrella handy, check out the links at the bottom to at least learn a bit of trivia about the invention of the nifty umbrella.