What's in a Name?

Something Authentic... and Unique

Pubs have great names. I wanted to create a name that was memorable and authentic. Since this is an Irish pub, it also needed a connection to Irish lore or symbols.

The Celtic knot was the first thing that came to mind. That presented a different problem: do you realize how many different knots there are? The more common knots wouldn't do. Not unique. I started searching for one that most had not seen but was intuitively recognized as a Celtic knot.

At the same time I also delved into Irish mythology-- leprechauns, banshees, fairies (or faeries if  you prefer), dieties, and heroes. Interesting, but nothing really resonated.

Then I read that in Irish mythology there are five trees which are known as "The Guardians of Ireland". The Oak-- Eó Mugna-- is considered the most sacred, and is featured on the Celtic Tree of Life. That checked the box of what type of wood to use to build the bar. Still no name.

Coincidence?

Around the same time I got tired of a crepe myrtle tree dropping berries and sap on my car in the driveway. It was overgrown, hadn't been tended properly. Decided it was time it came down. I saved the wood, thinking I would use it... someday.

A deeper connection with trees  and the pub started to form. The bar would be made of oak. What if there were branches coming up out of the bar itself? That would be interesting.

The Clincher

Then I saw a Celtic knot I'd never seen before: the Dara Knot. Obscure but identifiable. Best of all, it represents the tangled root system of an oak tree. Perfect!  An Irish friend later said it symbolizes "inner strength". Even perfecter! Now, how do I get one made?

Fortunately, I found a really talented guy on Etsy who produces handmade wooden objects, including Celtic knots-- and he does custom work. 

I shared the design with him. We discussed the dimensions and type of wood. We struck a deal. The result was perfect, deserving of a prominent place on the bar.