The umbrella was not originally designed to keep us dry, it was created to provide shade. And that was thousands of years ago, probably in the Middle East where sunburns were a real problem!
It provided shade, not only protection and in some cases could have dropped the temperature by as much as ten degrees. It did eventually become protection from the rain, snow and anything else that might fall on you except for maybe an anvil.
In England it became a fashion statement and still is. The styles and shapes have changed but the purpose stays the same. The curved handle was made just to fit over the arm so that it was easy to carry when not in use.
Such a simple tool that has so many uses and makes such a fashion statement.
How to celebrate – If you don’t have one, get an umbrella. Find an umbrella that fits your personality. Stay dry!
