By: Huck Fedorchuk 

     Why do we still put up Christmas trees and hang stockings? For most people, it is just something that they have always done. The history of Christmas is something that is overlooked and often forgotten, but it is always important to remember the traditions that your family has celebrated.  

     The Christmas tree is a staple of the holidays and a necessity for Christmas, but do you know where it came from? The Christmas tree originated from 16^th century Germany and symbolized life during winter. The first Christmas trees were often decorated with apples, nuts, and candles. 

     Another Christmas tradition most families participate in is hanging stockings above the chimney. This tradition comes from the legend that Saint Nicholas would drop gold or gifts down the chimney, and the stockings would catch them. It was popularized by the poem “The Night Before Christmas” in 1823. The most popular tradition of all is exchanging gifts, which comes from the three wiseman giving Jesus frankincense, gold, and myrrh. In addition to being influenced by the Christian Christmas story, the idea of gift giving was also expanded with the Pagan winter solstice customs. 

     The Squire asked Ms. Walter, our librarian, some questions about her own Christmas traditions. One of Ms. Walter’s traditions is making a Swedish dessert called a tea-ring which consists of yeast bread with cardamom, cinnamon, and sugar, formed into a wreath shape and filled with nuts, fruit, or almond paste. She also shared that her family makes ornaments and hangs them on their tree. In addition to holiday traditions in her home, Ms. Walter also practices some traditions here at EMHS. She shared that she has a book fair around Christmas every year. She also likes to read Christmas stories to the elementary schoolers to get them in the Christmas mood. 

     Christmas is a holiday that holds a special place in a lot of people’s hearts, but the real meaning of it gets fogged up with new traditions and spending money. Some of the best parts of the holiday season come from a simpler time, where just spending time together and enjoying a time when everything seems to take a break can be refreshing. It’s simple traditions like having a Christmas tree up with decorations and hanging stockings above the chimney that can bring holiday cheer.