Christmas is a time of peace and reconciliation. Families gather and hope to be at peace with the world around them. Their trees blaze with light on Christmas Eve, and the floor beneath is laden with their gifts. However, our forefathers’ Christmas decorations were simpler. That’s because they did not have the gift of electricity we take so much for granted.
Few Christmas Decorations in Medieval Times
People treated Christmas as a solemn occasion and an opportunity for quiet reflection in olden days. They may have had no Christmas decorations at all; although their aristocratic rulers could have decorated their homes with sweet-smelling herbs.
The annual ritual actually began 30 days earlier at Advent, when believers gave up all forms of luxury including their favorite food. When Christmas arrived it was a minor feast in those olden days, compared to the Annunciation and Easter. However, the solemn celebrations did last for 12 days all the way through to Epiphany, when they believed the infant was shown to the world.
A Step Change Occurs In 19th Century Europe
People in Europe developed a tradition of bringing young fir trees inside at dead of winter, and decorating their branches with colored paper. The origins of this go back to pagan history as this was not actually a Christian ritual. However tradition has it that Martin Luther decorated one with flickering candles.
Our story might have ended there, were it not for the spirit of entrepreneurship that characterizes America. Commerce assumed the role after Lutherans introduced Christmas trees to North America in 1957.
Their branches were soon weighed down with Christmas decorations including strings of twinkling lights, and this tradition is as strong as ever. We wish you a merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year from all our hearts. We will be enjoying a delicious Christmas lunch after exchanging gifts beneath our Christmas trees.
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Preview Image: Christmas Card 1880
