Poems and Thoughts    by Frank Maurer

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Bellwether. Managing a small farm, sometimes with sheep, I have always been amused by the term 'bellwether'. I know one would initially think Of a bell ringing to warn of the weather. Today, we use it for someone or something That leads the way or points out a trend. Historically, though, the usage first appeared in English In the 15th century, remaining to this day. In Middle English, 'Belle' meant a ringing bell And 'wether' was originally a male sheep, Later to become a castrated male sheep. This animal was designated to be the leader of the flock. By using a castrated individual, rather than an 'active' male May have designated, more accurately, the flock's position. (This is my own speculation as a farmer and biologist.) The sound of the bell was , of course, To locate the flock's whereabouts. It is interesting how word use shifts through the ages. 5 November 2025 1550 Hours.