The Pineapple - A Symbol of Hospitality

Perfect Pineapple Farmer's Market Collection 2010

The pineapple made its way to America through importing methods from the Caribbean in the seventeen hundreds. Since it was rare and had unique characteristics, it was soon the symbol for hospitality in early America. But the problem was getting the pineapple to other places because the only trade routes were by ship.When the ship arrived it was considered to be a great achievement to arrive with a pineapple. 

Another story tells that New England ship captains would return from their journeys and would put a pineapple around peoples houses as a symbol of a safe return. The pineapple has such a unique style to it that it was often used as the centerpiece in food banquets. It was also used as for decorating for arriving guests through 18^th and 19^th centuries.

The pineapple still remains the symbol of hospitality today. It just has that warm welcoming sense to it that says you are welcome to come in.