Barbara Feldman: History of Valentine's Day

History of Valentine's Day

Although February has long been associated with romance, the real history of St. Valentine's Day is unknown. Today’s Valentine’s Day celebration contain parts of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. So, who was Saint Valentine and how did he become associated with a romantic holiday?

One legend contends that Valentine was a third-century Roman priest. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men. Father Valentine, realizing the injustice of the law, defied Claudius and continued to perform secret marriages for young lovers. When his defiance was discovered, Claudius ordered Father Valentine executed.

According to yet another story, Valentine actually sent the first "valentine" while in prison. It is believed that Valentine fell in love with a young girl (his jailor's daughter?) who visited him during his imprisonment. Before his death, it is said that he wrote her a letter, which he signed 'From your Valentine,' an expression still used today.

Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is difficult to discern, each of the stories emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic, romantic figure.

My picks for Valentine's Day Games include:

Valentine's Day Coloring Pages: these can also be sent as coloring page postcards

Valentine's Day Heart Scrambler

Valentine's Day Jigsaw Puzzle