The Christmas tree was probably originated by Pagens and Druids who thought that evergreens were to be revered since they did not die each winter as did the other trees. Since the evergreens stayed alive they came to represent everlasting life. Even the Romans used the evergreen branches to hang in their homes and to exchange with friends to symbolize good luck.
Various decorations were added to the trees, such as coins for prosperity and all sorts of symbols for fertility, health, happiness, and so forth. It is said that The trees were brought indoors to provide a way for the fairy folks to participate in the festivities. The Saxons were the first to add lights to a tree in the form of candles.
Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria brought the first tree to Windsor Castle in 1841. However, the first recorded use of a tree in America was not until the 1830s. At first, Christmas trees were not well accepted because they were thought pagan symbols (which is true) but slowly they gained acceptance and by the 1890’s ornaments were being imported and used.
With the advent of electricity, trees were lighted and eventually became a necessity for the proper celebration of Christmas. Lately, because of protests, Christmas trees are now often sold as and referred to as "Holiday" trees.
In 1882 Thomas Edison’s assistant, Edward Johnson, developed the idea of Christmas tree lights that ran on electricity, making outdoor Christmas tree lights possible. And this led in turn to the use of lighted trees in outdoor displays. This occurred around 1912 and quickly spread across America and then to Europe to become a common phenomenon
No comments:
Post a Comment