This is yet another reason why I love South Carolina. Walking around Charleston, you'll see carved pineapples at the entrances to some homes. Since Colinial Days, the pineapple has been a symbol of hospitality. Legend has it that Sea Captains came home with exotic fruits. A Captain would spear a pineapple on his fence post to let friends know he was home safely and to please visit. He would then serve food & drink and regale visitors with tales of the high seas.
RGL