In the 11th Century, in what we now call France, women carried slender sticks made of apple wood. The use of the word cane for a walking stick began in the 16th century, when bamboo and other tropical grasses and reeds began to be used as shafts. The hook represented the Bishop drawing in his flock to the church.
A crooked staff with a hook held by a bishop was a symbol of his role as Shaped to his congregation. The church also began to use staffs to denote it's higher offices. Quality canes spoke volumes about a person's wealth and social status.īy the Middle Ages, (in what is now Europe), a scepter carried in the right hand was a symbol of royal power, while one in the left hand represented justice. Canes were made from Malacca or rattan, bamboo and other hardy reeds. The distinction between sticks and canes is based on the materials used sticks were made of ivory, whalebone, ebony and other valuable woods. Ancient Greek gods were often depicted with a staff in hand. These were often topped by an ornamental knob in the shape of a lotus, a symbol of long life. Egyptian rulers were believed to have carried staffs varying from three to six feet in length. Rulers of many cultures, past and present, have carried some form of walking stick or staff. Walking Canes as a Status Symbol in Earlier Times Over time, the walking stick gradually began to be known as a symbol for power and strength, and eventually authority and social prestige. A nice hefty stick was an excellent way to protect against thieves and to keep animals in line. Walking sticks started out as a necessary tool for the Shepherd and traveler. From the very earliest of times people across multiple civilations used walking canes not only for walking, but as an ornamental piece to accent their wardrobe and show their status in society.
There is a very long and interesting history of the walking canes and walking sticks. Learn About the History of the Walking Cane
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