I just thought, some of you might be interesed in the plant Soapweed has in his last picture. It is Western Fleabane.
This is a low growing plant, I believe an annual, that grows in sandier soil where other vegitation is sparse. Looks like he has the seed stalk of the needle and thread also in the picture.
Legend has it that the fleabanes were so named because people hung them in their cottages and cabins with the belief they would keep away fleas. The early day settlers here in Nebraska complained a lot about the fleas getting into their homes. some blamed the raising of hogs, some believed they were carried by coyotes and foxes.
Many of the early home's floors were only packed earth, women wore long skirts, as houses were small many of their chores and tasks were done outdoors. Grass was often tall right up to their home. All of this contributed to the carrying in of fleas.
My dad said that when the swift fox became more or less instinct people said they no longer had the trouble with the fleas. More likely though was that their homes were much more improved by that time.
