TRADITION

Christmas TREE

BY TERRI FERRAGUT PHOTOGRAPHY BY KING'S COURT CREATIVE, ZAINAH HAIDER

hether it’s the ritual of hauling the artificial Christmas tree from its tucked-away storage or outdoors searching for the perfect tree to bring back home, decorating our holiday tree is not only a special event — it’s historic. A TRADITION THROUGH THE AGESW Bringing evergreen trees indoors has traditionally been used to celebrate winter festivals by both Pagans and Christians for thousands of years. Pagans used evergreens to decorate their homes during the winter solstice as a symbol of light in a dark winter with hopes of spring. Early Romans decorated their temples during midDecember to honor Saturn, the god of agriculture. In the 16th century, Germans began a Christmas tree tradition, as many Christians began decorating trees brought in from the outdoors. Often decorated with delicious edible decorations, such as gingerbread men or precious gold-covered apples, glass artisans would also supply hand-crafted ornaments to hang. Those who

couldn’t afford a tree would craft and decorate clever alternatives using wood to fashion the shape of an evergreen.

Martin Luther, the 16th-century Christian preacher, is recorded as one of the first people to bring a Christmas tree into his home and also to add lights. Historians cite that one night before Christmas, Martin was seen walking through the forest, inspired by the brightly shining stars glistening through the tree branches. LifeLIVED YOUR WAY.

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In England, George III’s wife, Queen Charlotte, made societal history in December 1800 by setting up a yew tree in the drawing room at the Queen’s Lodge in Windsor and hosting a large party. The tree was decorated with baubles, fruit, toys and small wax candles — a sight that delighted noble guests. In 1848, an illustration of Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and family standing around their Christmas tree at Windsor Castle was featured in the London news. Victoria and Albert were popular royals and soon all British homes began to include an evergreen tree during Christmas.

Today, everyone has their own traditions that revolve around the Christmas tree and its décor. Every ornament holds a story that carries sentimental value, reflecting a piece of our identity, our own family’s history. Through the years, Inspired Home has witnessed many beautiful trees embellished by area designers. Enjoy this stunning collection of Inspired Home’s very own Christmas tree history. Happy Holidays!

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