Christmas Tree History - A True Symbol of the Season

Christmas Tree History
A True Symbol of the Season

The tradition of bringing inside a tree is believed to have begun in the 1400 to 1500's. It was in 1510, the first decorated tree was at Riga in Latvia. Although the Christmas Tree as we know it is said to have originated in 16th century Germany. It was a common practice for the German people to adorn fir trees, both inside and out, with roses, apples, and colored paper. Martin Luther, a Protestant reformer, is credited with being the first to light a Christmas tree with candles. It is said that he was walking home one winter evening, when struck by the brilliance of the stars twinkling through the evergreens branches, he recaptured the scene for his family by erecting a tree in the main room and wiring lighted candles on the branches.

This tradition spread from Germany to England, in about 1841, by King George I. The British were not fond of the German Monarchy, so the tradition was not well established at that time. It wasn't until 1846 when the popular royals, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, were shown standing with their children around a Christmas tree that the tradition became fashionable. This was not only with the British, but with the fashion conscious East Coast American Society.

Although the tradition had been brought to America in the 1820's by the Pennsylvania Germans, most Americans found the Christmas tree an oddity and it was not very well accepted. The New England Puritans considered Christmas to be sacred and the Christmas trees were seen as pagan symbols. This stern practice continued until the 19th century, when a strong influx of German and Irish immigrants undermined the Puritan legacy.

In the early 20th century, the popularity of the Christmas tree was on the rise in the United States. Although the Europeans used trees about four feet in height, the Americans prefered to use trees that reached from floor to ceiling. The Americans began decorating their trees with homemade ornaments, such as popcorn strung together with berries and nuts. With the invention of electricity, electric Christmas lights replaced candles. These were much safer and could be used for long periods of time. With this, Christmas trees began appearing in town squares across the country and having a Christmas tree in the home became an American tradition.

There are few Christmas traditions more beloved than the Christmas Tree. The Christmas tree has been sold in the United States since 1850, and today nearly 35 million trees are sold each year, while the Scotch Pine continues to be the most popular tree for decorating. You also have the option of having an artificial tree that can be used year after year. Whatever type of tree you choose, be sure to decorate and enjoy it as a true symbol of the season.

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