One of the most unique of the old legends handed down in the South is the story of the Dogwood Tree. According to legend the tree was once very large and because its wood was strong and sturdy, it was used to build the cross on which Jesus was crucified. it is said that God both cursed and blessed the tree. It was cursed to forever be small, so that it would never grow large enough again for its wood to be used as a cross for a crucifixion. At the same time, however, the tree was blessed so that it would produce beautiful flowers each spring, just in time for Easter. Most unique of all the legend is that the petals of the dogwood would form the shape of a cross. And the tips of each of the petals indented, as if they bear a nailprint. The center of the flower would rise up, and appear as the thorny crown that circled Jesus head. ©2011 Photography by Terri Chandler (DwCCreations)