This month…

AUGUST Facts

Originally it was the sixth month in the ancient Roman calendar and was called Sextilis. August has 31 days, the same as July—a quirk that traces back to Augustus (founder of the Roman Empire, 63BC -14AD) wanting his namesake month to be just as long as his adoptive father’s, Julius Caesar.

The sandwich was invented in England on August 6, 1762, when the 4th Earl of Sandwich requested meat be placed between two slices of bread so he wouldn't have to leave his gambling table.

On the Channel Island of Jersey, men are historically banned from knitting during the fishing season which runs through August and September.

The patriotic song "Rule, Britannia!" was sung for the very first time in public on August 1, 1740, in Thomas Arne's Masque of Alfred.

The August Bank Holiday was originally designed by banker John Lubbock in 1871 so that bank employees could attend the village cricket matches and harvest fairs that typically peaked in late summer.

August is unique because it features three birthstones:- peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Peridot, known for its green hues, can even be found in meteorites!

The floral symbols for the month are gladiolus and poppy.

Meteor Showers: Stargazers are treated every August to the peak of the Perseid meteor shower, making it one of the most active and visible showers of the year.