“Alright, everyone,” said Raptor Rex, “this here’s a strange note from history.”
Groovy leaned back, “Strange how?”
Rex continued, “Back in early America, some folks believed every day should be treated the same—serious, focused, no special celebrations.”
Thumper looked up.
“No holidays at all?”
“None,” Rex said. “Not even Easter.”
No Special Days?
In the Massachusetts Bay Colony, the Puritans had a strict view:
If something wasn’t clearly in the Bible, it didn’t belong.
That included holidays.
Even Easter—one of the most important days in Christianity—was seen as unnecessary. To them, it looked too close to older traditions they didn’t trust.
Groovy raised a brow.
“So no feasts? No rest days?”
“Exactly,” said Luminera. “In fact, celebrating could cost you.”
⚖️ The Five-Shilling Rule
In 1659, a law made it official:
Celebrate holidays like Easter or Christmas—
even by resting or sharing a meal—
and you’d be fined five shillings.
Thumper winced.
“That’s a pricey dinner.”
Note: That is about $25.00 in today’s economy.
A Different Way of Living
The Puritans believed only a small number of people would be saved. So they kept life strict. Focused. Controlled.
Celebrations didn’t fit that lifestyle.
Even preachers faced a strange problem: What do you do on Easter Sunday?
T-Rhythm shrugged. “You dance to a different tune.”
The Bronto Takeaway
Rex smiled at the group.
“Different times. Different thinking. But here’s the thing—”
Luminera stepped forward, glowing softly in the morning light.
“People have always searched for meaning. Sometimes through quiet thought… sometimes through joyful celebration.”
Groovy nodded.
“And sometimes, both.”
Thank you for visiting!
🦕Featured Article: Autism and Dinosaurs: A Slow Day in Brontobama
🦖 #brontobama # autism
More Fun With Dinosaurs
📚 Book Series #ad Amazon
🧢 Dinosaur Gift Shop #ad Etsy
🖍️ Free Coloring Page
📬 Contact
🐾 Doug Bayliss, Author and Creator — bayliss.com