Palmer

Palmer (Lat. palmifer, 'a palm-bearer'), properly so called, was a pilgrim who had performed the pilgrimage to the Holy Sepulchre, and had returned, or was returning home after the fulfilment of his vow. The Palmers were so called from their carrying branches of the oriental palm, in token of their accomplished expedition. On arriving at their home they repaired to the church to return thanks to God, and offered the palm to the priest, to be placed upon the altar.