Rensselaer Republican, Volume 18, Number 34, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 29 April 1886 — The Shamrock. [ARTICLE]

The Shamrock.

It is said by some that the true shamrock is the black Nonesuch or Medicago, while others assert that it is the Dutch clover. On St. Patrick’s Day both of these plants may be seen in the decorations of those who celebrate. The legend connected with this national emblem is as follows: When St. Patrick landed in Ireland in the fifth century, after overcoming the hostility of the natives, he proceeded to instruct them in the doctrines of Christianity. But in vain did he endeavor to explain to them the doctrine of the Trinity or Unity. His untutored hearers failed to comprehend his meaning, till, plucking a trefoil to serve as an illustration, lie inquired of them: “Is it not as possible for the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost to be one God in three persons as for these three leaves to grow upon a single stalk ?” This argument, it is said, immediately convinced the Irish, who yieled to St. Patrick’s efforts for their conversion. The shamrock was thenceforth dedicated to the saint.