Christmas Trees Through Time

by Sophora Welsh | December 19, 2023

Christmas trees are a custom that can be found in almost every home when the holiday season draws near. Decorated with lights, ornaments, and garlands, a Christmas tree brings joy to every home. But how did it become one of the greatest traditions in the modern world? How does it fit in with Christmas?
The beginnings of Christmas trees have many myths. One legend states that Martin Luther, who initiated the Protestant Reformation, believed that evergreens (specifically pines) represented the goodness of God. Although this may have helped the Christmas tradition spread, Germany was credited with starting the Christmas tree design we all know today. 
During the 12th century, an evergreen fir was decorated with apples and used as a prop for the Paradise Play, which depicted the creation, sin, banishment, and forgiveness by God. Many years later, on December 24, 1419, a group of German bakers was said to have displayed a Paradise Tree and adorned it with baked wafers, apples, gingerbread, and tinsel. This may have been the first display of what is now known as the Christmas tree.
Accordingly, the tradition caught on, and by 1605, embellished Paradise trees were common decorations throughout Germany and France. In later years, German settlers brought Christmas trees with them to America, although the practice was not accepted until the late 1830s.
Evergreen trees, whether real or artificial, have found their way into our homes at Christmas time. This amazing tradition, no matter the origins, makes Christmas a truly bright season.