History of the Christmas Tree
How Evergreen Trees Became Indoor Decorations for the Holiday Season
Dec 19, 2008
Christmas trees have only widely decorated homes for the holidays since the 1800s, although decorating with evergreen boughs dates back much further. Legends link the tradition both to Pagan midwinter celebrations and Christian notables, but it more likely originated in the German tradition of “paradise trees” that were brought into homes to celebrate the Feast of Adam and Eve. Brought to America in the 18th century, the trees have maintained their popularity for two centuries.
Pagan Connections
Cultures in warmer climates would sometimes decorate trees with precious metals, says B.A. Robinson. At the same time, Germanic tribes were festooning homes with evergreen boughs hung with fruit and candles near the winter solstice, as a reminder of the promise of life’s returning to the land. This is also the period from which Yule logs, holly and ivy became winter holiday symbols. Neopagans today frequently celebrate Yule, the day when the sun returns; it is a celebration that is strongly rooted in the light overcoming darkness.
Christian Traditions
The Christmas tree was not quickly accepted by Christians, but as it became more common so too did the legends of its holy origins. St. Boniface is said to have symbolically destroyed Paganism by felling an oak and discovering an evergreen growing within its trunk, and Martin Luther is reputed to have cut down the first one himself to bring a bit of nature into his home. The tree is sometimes used as a symbol of the Holy Trinity.
Secular Practices
Christmas trees decorate the homes of members of many faiths, and are generally accepted as a symbol of the cultural holiday called Christmas, Xmas, or Giftmas. Robinson says that the first record of one being set up in a church was in 1850, but the tree itself is more closely linked to Santa and other secular Christmas traditions. Trees compete with stockings for best wrapped gift receptacle, and perform well whether they are artificial or natural. Natural trees can be purchased living, pre-cut, or even cut by the family itself.
Safety
The holidays have come a long way since dead trees were lit up with candles in their branches – LEDs are the safest, most energy-efficient way to illuminate a tree today. Tree lovers should heed fire department warnings about overloading wiring and watering trees in the home. Pets should be watched carefully to prevent disastrous accidents.
An old tradition that has roots many centuries old, Christmas trees continue to be a popular and festive way to welcome in the wintry months ahead.
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