And surprise, surprise each one of those names is a real name for Santa Claus. But where exactly did the story of Santa Claus delivering gifts from a sleigh with eight tiny reindeer come from.
One author from New York City named Clement Clarke Moore had something to do with it. In 1822 he penned a poem name 'A Visit from St. Nicholas.' The poem became one of the most read books at Christmastime, "The Night Before Christmas."
He developed the poem from two legendary figures,
St. Nicholas
who was known for gift giving and leaving presents in stockings
and Sinterklaas
He threw in a smidge of Odin,
the pegan god of Yule, who road a flying horse with eight legs.
Moore also portrayed St. Nicholas as a jolly elf, not a religious figure.
He added a a pack of toys
and a sleigh with flying reindeer to give the poem just enough magic to become popular.
The answer is Thomas Nast, another New Yorker who was an illustrator. In 1862 the publication Harper's Weekly commissioned Nast to illustrate their Christmas edition. The renderings he produced transformed the idea of who Santa was and where he came from.
And last but not least, what about the history of the Christmas tree? The history behind the Christmas tree goes back ancient Egypt. It was thought that plants that remained green during the winter held special meaning. People would put evergreen boughs over their windows and doorways to ward off evil spirits. The decorated tree can be traced back to Germany in the 1600. Some scholars give credit to Martin Luther for adding lighted candles to the tree.
Of Course, Christmas, to many, is not so much about a man in a bright red suit riding in a sleigh with reindeer and handing out presents. In many different countries and cultures it's a time to gather together with family and friends to celebrate our beliefs. To be thankful for what we have been given. So, however you choose to celebrate Christmas, I wish you great love and Peace and joy for the season and the coming new year.
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