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COVER FEATURE apiology ( api-ol-o-gy ) : the scientific study of honeybees
• Source : Merriam-Webster Dictionary
Beekeeping , also known as apiology , has served as an important art and science throughout human history . According to the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture ( www . agfoundation . org ), the world ’ s oldest honey dates back to the 35th century BC . Beekeeping has been around for centuries , and the earliest written references to it can be found within Ancient Greek myths and legends .
Today , beekeeping continues to fascinate many across the United States , including the Meridian area . As a form of agriculture , it serves as a source for food , medicine , as well as provides other commodities while bringing income to the most devoted .
In the following pages , we spotlight two area beekeepers : Mark Whiddon — a retired photographer who several years ago added beekeeping to his list of outdoor hobbies — and Charles Vick — a longtime beekeeper who retired from beekeeping five years ago , only to be lured back to the art earlier this year . Beekeeping has proven to be a hobby beyond their expectations in work and fulfillment .
By the way , beekeepers are also called honey farmers , apologists , apiarists , or less commonly , apiculturists . The term “ beekeeper ” refers to an individual who keeps honey bees in beehives , boxes or other receptacles .
Stories by Glenda Sanders Photos by Terrell Clark www . meridianstar . com
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