Gool Peran Lowen!
On March 5, Cornwall, of course, celebrates St. Piran’s Day.
St. Piran is the patron saint of tin miners, an industry that was keys to Cornwall’s economy for centuries.
A man of mystery, it is believed that St. Piran was a 5th-century bishop exiled from Ireland. Thrown into the sea to drown, he travelled far, miraculously coming ashore on Cornwall’s Perran Beach. There, he built a small chapel.
The National Day site says:
St. Piran is known for discovering the process of tin extraction, giving local miners the secrets of the county’s most important industry. He noticed a black stone leaking a white liquid when heated up by his fire — and tin mining in Cornwall was born. The Cornish flag, a white cross on a black background, represents this crucial revelation. Tin mining changed the economy of Cornwall and remained at the heart of its economy until the last mine shut down in 1998.
The holiday gained new popularity in the early 20th century as Celtic revivalists looked for ways to strengthen local pride. The holiday has been observed in almost all Cornish towns since the 1950s, complete with parades and public celebrations. The distinctive black and white flag can be seen flying across Cornwall in early March.
Don’t forget Bude’s celebrations today! Any other events, please let us know!