“The Wild Side of Weather” at the Tennessee Aqaurium

Folklore was an important part of weather forecasting in the 19th century in Europe. Without any official source of weather forecasts, farmers and country people became especially alert to weather signs. Thousands of weather proverbs touted various indicators from nature, including animal behavior.

The Chief of the young American weather service, which was part of the U.S. Army Signal Corps, recognized the importance of such sayings. But there was no established base of American weather folklore.
W.B. Hazen responded by putting out a call to the country, asking for weather signs and sayings. In return for submitting information, senders would be rewarded with a copy of the final published book. It was released in 1883.

Not many people have a copy of that original book, but Thom Benson, the Communications Director for the beautiful Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga does. As he read through his treasured book, the former television meteorologist realized that many of the animals mentioned in Hazen’s collection also resided at the Aquarium.

Of course, the most famous is the ground hog. One of the most loved and well worn pieces of weather folklore relates to Candlemas Day, or February 2nd. On this halfway point of winter, traditional lore has it that if the groundhog emerges from its burrow in the morning and sees its shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter. If he isn’t scared back inside by his shadow, winter will soon abate. Is there any truth to this folklore? Hardly. But it is fun.

Throughout the month of February, the Tennessee Aquarium will be presenting an exhibition called “The Wild Side of Weather.” There, you will be able to learn about the fascinating subject of weather folklore, and learn whether some of the most famous proverbs are fact, or fiction.

You will also be able to meet many of the furry forecasters as well, in keeper talks and animal encounters at the museum throughout the month. The Aquarium is located on the banks of the Tennessee River in Chattanooga. Their website is www.tnaqua.org.

Thom will join us on WeatherBrains tonight to talk about the exhibition and folklore.

Category: Pre-November 2010 Posts