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History of Walking Canes and Sticks

Walking Sticks and Canes have a rich history. They were purely functional in some periods while in others they were fashionable status symbols. Today, their role has shifted to one of both function and fashion.

The earliest record that we have of cane use is by shepherds who used them to keep their animals in line. Some time later, travelers used canes to keep would-be thieves away. They were hefty sticks but they served their purpose well.

As time went on, canes and walking sticks began to symbolize power and strength. Many rulers from various countries were known to carry canes or staffs as they called them. These staffs were sometimes as long as six feet and were topped by an ornamental knob in the shape of a lotus, a symbol of long life. Even the Egyptian gods were often depicted with long staffs in hand. Carrying these canes or staffs was a serious thing, even down to the hand in which they were carried. When a staff was carried in the right hand, for example, it represented royal power. In the left hand, it represented justice. The church even used staffs to denote its higher offices. There were sticks with a range of animal heads for handles; there were carved wooden sticks; there were sticks with handles made from bone, ivory, silver or jade. And everyone in society had a stick, from the simple peasant with his hand-carved wooden cane to the Lords and Dukes with their gold and ivory canes.

Eventually canes evolved to more common use. After the 1600s, they were typically used by men as a fashionable part of their daily attire. In fact, in some countries, the cane depicted social status and even required a special license to carry. The use of canes even required the following of special etiquette rules. This fashion style for men continued into the 18th century. Soon enough, it became fashionable for women to carry canes as well. For example, in 11th century France, women often carried slender sticks that were made of Apple wood. They came into fashion again with Marie Antoinette, who was known for carrying a Shepherd's crook.

Today, walking sticks and canes are usually only seen with formal attire, unless they are used for a more functional purpose. Most people usually envision them as a mobility accessory reserved for the elderly. They are also commonly used by people with injuries that create the need for extra support and mobility. Walking sticks and canes are still available in many fashionable styles and are made to be functional. Some people rely on walking sticks for extra support while hiking.

It is also popular to collect canes. In fact they are often made for this exclusive purpose. When they are made for collectors, canes generally do not support weight well and are not recommended for daily use. Collectors usually look for old styles, new styles and novelties such as hidden compartments, pool sticks, and sword canes.

Walking Sticks are very useful in nature and have a long history in fashion. Become a part of this rich tradition. Walk well!

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