There are varying opinions as to the origin of Valentine's Day. Some experts
state that it originated from St. Valentine, a Roman who was martyred for
refusing to give up Christianity. He died on February 14, 269 A.D., the same
day that had been devoted to love lotteries. Legend also says that St.
Valentine left a farewell note for the jailer's daughter, who had become his
friend, and signed it "From Your Valentine". Other aspects of the story say
that Saint Valentine served as a priest at the temple during the reign of
Emperor Claudius. Claudius then had Valentine jailed for defying him. In 496
A.D. Pope Gelasius set aside February 14 to honor St. Valentine.

Gradually, February 14 became the date for exchanging love messages and St.
Valentine became the patron saint of lovers. The date was marked by sending
poems and simple gifts such as flowers. There was often a social gathering
or a ball.

In the United States, Miss Esther Howland is given credit for sending the
first valentine cards. Commercial valentines were introduced in the 1800's
and now the date is very commercialised. The town of Loveland, Colorado,
does a large post office business around February 14. The spirit of good
continues as valentines are sent out with sentimental verses and children
exchange valentine cards at school.

Then again, there is this:

"Only Capone kills guys like that!", said Bugs Moran after learning that
seven of his men had been killed in a warehouse on Clark Street.(reference
the St. Valentine's Day Massacre, 1929)

Jill