And because of this, they called this ceremony bringing Home the May, or going A-Maying, and so the hawthorn bloom itself acquired the name of May, and is often spoken of by that name.

In those early days, the fairest maid of the village was crowned with flowers, and called the Queen of May; she sat in state in a little bower or arbor while her youthful courtiers danced and sang around her.

But the custom of having a May Queen really dates back to the old Roman celebration when they especially worshipped the goddess Flora.

Another feature of May-day was the May-pole, which was erected in all English towns and villages, and round which the people danced all day long.

But these merry customs were stopped when the Puritans put an end to all such jollifications.