We’re approaching the time of year when, as the season brings about a newness to our gardens, bees spring to life. Traditionally, when we think of keeping bees we think of hives, apiaries and people in space-like beekeeper suits. While such a method of keeping bees is a relatively modern approach, this article published in 1823 relates a traveller’s wise words in relation to the ancient method of tree-beekeeping.
“Our cruel mode of taking honey by destroying the innocent and beautiful insects that produce it, can no longer be defended by the plea of necessity. A late traveller in the northern parts of India describes the following method by which the honey-gatherers there effect their purpose. A hollow tree, or an earthen pot, is built in the wall of a house, or out-house, with apertures externally, through which bees enter and go out. The internal end of this hive can be opened or shut at pleasure by various simple contrivances; a sliding door is one. In the centre of the hive there is a valve. When the hive is full, and the honey is to be taken, a great noise is made at the inner extremity. This drives the bees out; the valve is then closed, and the honey is taken out by the sliding door.”
Stamford Mercury, 7 November 1823.