The Oak tree has a long tradition in England as a symbol of life and security. For many years the Oak tree stood as a Celtic symbol for life. The acorn was often used as a symbol of rebirth and as Christianity came to England it became a symbol of the resurrection. But it was King Charles II who proved the power of the Oak was behind the crown.

In 1651, Charles II was crowned in Scotland. Later the same year, he marched 16,000 troops from Scotland to the England to claim back his crown there as well. Unfortunately, the Scots forces were defeated by English Parliamentary Forces and King Charles was forced to flee.

After the battle, Charles headed north where he could be put up in a safe house. Traveling with a companion, Charles passed thru Kidderminster, decided to speak French as if a French Soldier to avoid detection, although it must have been strange to the locals as to why French Soldiers were in the West of England at that time of night.

Once there, Charles took off his Buff coat and the red sash and gave his gold to his servants. And changed into a Green jerkin, grey cloth breeches, leather doublet and greasy soft hat - a la Charles, the woodman. However, his new shoes did not fit. Charles also cut his long hair and shaved his beard.

Disguise was necessary because Parliament would surely have executed Charles II as they had his father. Anyone who supported his escape was equally in danger. Which is why there was only one lord who knew the king's plan to head for London rather than the Welsh ports or Scotland. Fortunately none of the rest of the lords would ever find out, because unfortunately all but Buckingham were captured. Lauderdale from Scotland was imprisoned. Darby, an English Noble, was executed.

It was during the King's return to London that he took refuge in an Oak tree with his head in the lap of his traveling companion. During the night, while the king sleep in the safety of the tree and the arms of his loyal supporter, some of the English soldiers passed underneath. The King was undetected and allowed to make it safely back to France.

Nearly 10 years later, Charles would return to England at the request of the English Parliament to take his rightful place as King of England. May 29th, on the eve of his coronation, Charles created the created the Order of the Royal Oak, a knighthood celebrating the protection the Oak had provided the crown in its time of need.

As the King was newly returned, the symbol of the acorn, or rebirth, was used for the knightly order to symbolize the restoration of the crown. The knighthood was bestowed upon those who had supported the king during his exile from the throne. This day is celebrated as Royal Oak Day.