You didn't explain the root of the "49"
You are a very gracious and hospitable glutton for punishment! You actually reading this stuff?
Well, the full answer here isn't short, either. The short explanation is that at least one other putz had already taken the name, so I had to make it different. "Pawhuska1" (or however far I'd have had to go) seemed dippy, so I wanted a "significant" number. And 49 fills that bill.
"A 49" is late 20th Century modern American Indian slang for a unique kind of get-together that there really isn't any word for. But it's generally outside, involves traditional music and dancing, and maybe some adult beverages. (Actually, that last part is required.)
There are several stories about why "49." I only remember one, and I really don't believe it. It has to do with the sole survivor of a decimated Army company holding a ceremony, or wake, or whatever, for the rest, "the 49."
For purposes of the story, a company consists of four squads of 12 men, a sergeant and a lieutenant. But a combat company in the field never has exactly that number. Unless maybe it was just inserted. Sooo, maybe. And all the more tragic, therefore, if true. But I dunno.
I think some stuff this is just coincidental. The real connection is trivial and soon forgotten, but the name sticks and something makes people give it significance afterward.
Sort of like here. The reason 49 actually came to mind was that I was born in that year.
Wayne |
