Theodore stands at our door to greet you when you come into Ellie’s. Theodore, the large wooden rooster, is our official Ellie’s mascot. If you have been into our small French bakery, you may have also noticed several ceramic roosters, as well as the rooster symbol painted on our floor. We just might have more roosters per square foot than the Museum of Modern Art has Picassos! So, why all the roosters? Where does a rooster fit in at a little French bakery in Providence?

The rooster has a long history as a symbol of new possibilities. He rings in each morning, welcoming a new day, and a fresh start. Roosters can be found throughout history as a sacred bird in ancient Persia, atop weather vanes in the United States, or on a 2,000 year-old mosaic from Pompeii.

robin_coat_of_armsThe Gallic Rooster is the national emblem of France, the Rhode Island Red is the state bird of Rhode Island, and Portugal claims the Barcelos Rooster as its national bird. Roosters also make lighthearted appearances as the symbol of Sir Robin in Monty Python and the Holy Grail (shown here), and as Foghorn Leghorn in Bugs Bunny cartoons.

Roosters also have a protective nature; they stand guard over the flock, ensuring the safety and vitality of the group. One of our favorite traits of some roosters is their willingness to call the rest of the flock to share a treat, and they are quite good dancers!

We at Ellie’s will probably not dance for you, but we are excited about the coffee and treats that we have to share. Do you have any rooster stories or myths to share? Come visit and tell us about it, or share your story in the comments below.

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