~ Victorian Christmas Traditions~
Christmas In The Victorian Home
The Victorians greatly influenced the way in which we celebrate Christmas today.
They cherished the season and made it a time of family togetherness. Because most Victorian families could not afford to celebrate with elaborate parties as the more wealthy families did, they would spend evenings entertaining themselves at home.
In the parlour, they would gather together and share stories of Christmases past by the fireplace, while the glowing embers brought to light the joy on their faces. The fireplace became a "central part of the typical Christmas scene".
Children would sit wide-eyed and full of interest, as the story of the Saviours birth was being read aloud from the Holy Bible. Someone would sit at the old upright piano and play "Silent Night" and then soon everyone would hold hands around the tree and sing along. There was hot apple cider and freshly baked sugar cookies brought in on a tray, their delicious fragrances wafting through the air. There was talking and laughter and board games to be played. It was a time of warm embraces, tender kisses beneath the mistletoe and loving smiles for everyone. Hearts were light and happiness was everywhere!
Christmas Cards
Christmas cards were a cheerful and elegant way of sending Christmas wishes to family and friends. This special tradition was created by the Victorians. The very first Christmas card was made in 1843.
Caroling
Caroling was a merry way to spread joy to others during the holiday season. Groups of happy carolers would either gather on street corners or would travel from house to house singing old familiar carols.
Gifts
Middle-class families could often afford elaborate gifts for one another. Their children would usually be given board games, dolls and books. As for the less fortunate families, just a simple stocking filled with an apple, orange and a few nuts was all they could afford.
Victorian families would often make their own hand-crafted gifts for giving, as well. Those gifts seemed to be the most treasured, for everyone knew that alot of time and effort and love had gone into making them. Hand-crafted gifts were priceless.
During this season of good will, wealthy Victorians would often give money and gifts to the poor, a generous deed which was very much appreciated.
Christmas Trees
The Christmas tree, first called the "Christbaum", was a tradition in Germany in the early 1800's. In 1841, Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert, introduced the Christmas tree to England, where it became very popular.
The Stocking
The stocking first became popular in 1870. Rumour has it, that if a child was bad all year, they would only get a lump of coal in the toe of their stocking!
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