Beginning in Europe in the late 17th century and extending into American during the 18th century, the pineapple became a symbol of hospitality and friendship. When New England sea captains returned from their long voyages to the South Seas, they would spear a precious pineapple on their iron gate to announce to friends and neighbors that the Captain was home and all were welcome.

Sparteye, I hope you're not making that up, because we bought a pineapple on the weekend, and we ate it last night, and of course I gave my husband the whole explanation. (Funny, you can't find decent Italian bread, cheese, or kalamata olives in Newfoundland, but hey - they get pineapples!)