You’ve probably heard by now, one of the most famous groundhogs In Pennsylvania has predicted an EARLY SPRING!  While, there is still time to enjoy all of the wonderful winter activities in and around the Gettysburg Area; here at #thegaslightinn, we couldn’t be happier. 

This all got me to thinking, where did Ground Hogs day come from anyway? The Editors at The Encyclopedia Britannica provided the answers to my curiosity.  Read all about Ground Hogs day on their website  at www.britannica.com/topic/Groundhog-Day.

Here are the top 5 things I found interesting.

1. February falls roughly halfway between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.

2. The lore of animals emerging from their hibernation to “see their shadow” dates back to the Middle-Ages.

3. German immigrants brought the lore to the United States, where in Pennsylvania the Ground Hog was substituted for the Badger.

4. Punxsutawny Phil started his career in 1887.

5. And possibly my favorite of all...  During Prohibition, Phil threatened to impose 60 weeks of winter on the community if he wasn't permitted a drink. 🤣 (according to visitpa.com)

(photo courtesy of www.atimetolaugh.org)