Worship of oak trees in Ancient Britain

It should not be forgotten that the oak was worshipped by the ancient Britons. Baal or Yiaoul (whence Yule) was the god of fire, whose symbol was an oak. Hence at his festival, which was at Christmas, the ceremony of kindling the Yule log was performed among the ancient Druids. This fire was kept perpetual throughout the year, and the hearths of all the people were annually lighted from these sacred fires every Christmas. We believe the curious custom is still extant in some remote parts of England, where the "Yule log" is ushered in with much glee and rejoicing once a year.