Apple Tree Man facts for kids
The Apple Tree Man is a special spirit from English folklore. People believed he lived in the oldest apple tree in an orchard. They thought he helped the apple trees grow strong and produce lots of fruit.
Who is the Apple Tree Man?
The Apple Tree Man is like a guardian spirit for apple orchards. He is often seen as the heart of the orchard's health and growth. Stories about him come from Somerset, a county in England famous for making cider. A person named Ruth Tongue, who collected old folk tales, wrote down many of these stories.
The Farmer and the Hidden Gold
One famous story tells of a poor farmer. It was Christmas Eve, and he had only one mug of warm, spiced cider left. Instead of drinking it, he poured it around the roots of his apple trees. This was a way of showing thanks, like the old custom of apple wassailing.
Suddenly, the Apple Tree Man appeared! He was pleased with the farmer's kindness. The spirit then told the farmer where to find buried gold. This gold was enough to help the farmer pay his rent and solve his money troubles.
The Curious Farm Cat
Another tale is about a brave farm cat. She loved to explore, even in fields that people avoided. These fields were thought to be a bit spooky. One day, the cat ventured into the orchard.
The Apple Tree Man saw her and warned her to go home. He said people were coming to pour cider for his roots. They would also make loud noises to scare away any bad spirits. He told the cat not to wander at night until "St. Tibb's Eve." The cat never did wander at night again. This is because St. Tibb's Eve is a day that never actually comes!
