GREEN MAN OR JACK IN THE GREEN

The Green Man was one of the names given to a leaf clad Mummer, origin approximately 1775-85. He was a Chimney Sweep who walked encased in a framework of wood or wickerwork which was covered with leaves and sometimes surrounded by a crown of flowers and ribbons.

He would dance on May Day and other pageants at the head of a procession to clear the way. Other Mummers would surround him and collect money from the crowd.

As time went on, The Green Man or 'Jack' was accepted as a symbol of May Day celebrations.