“FATHER CHRISTMAS.”

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLII, Issue 2219, 23 December 1920, Page 4

“FATHER CHRISTMAS.”

It has been observed that Santa Claus is especially the patron of children, and this part at least of the present-giving habit shows no sign of diminution, much to the joy of the younger generation. The secretive manner of “Father Christmas” of thrusting his gifts into stockings, and coming unseen down the chimney is quite in keeping .with his secret method of providing a dower for the three poor maidens. Possibly this identification of St Nicholas with “Father Christmas” originated in Scandinavia when the northern- peoples were converted to Christianity, for Odin, used to bestow gifts to all who approached his holy lir, tree at Yuletide. The custom was too pleasant to lose? and was naturally associated in the new faith with a popular saint who already had a reputation for secret generosity.

The sending of Christmas cards is comparatively a modern innovation, the first: of these cards only dating back about seventy years. It was not, however, until 1802 that the custom became at all popular. The card of that dale was simply an ordinary visiting card inscribed “A Merry Christmas” or “A Happy New Year,” but by IStiS robins and holly, embossed figures and landscapes, were introduced, and the Christmas card as we know it was an established fact. Though not so popular now as some few years ago, when the custom of exchanging cards almost became a nuisance, the Christinas card still maintains a certain popularity as an inexpensive and convenient way of sending seasonable remembrances. No doubt it has its disadvantages—choking the mail-bags to the detriment of genuine correspondence, and often taking the place, in a most unworthy manner, of. an anticipated Christinas gift.'

Most oilier Christmas customs and institutions are pre-Christian survivals. The Christmas tree appears to have some connection with Ygdrusil. the world ash tree of Scandinavia; holly and mistletoe to the Druids; while Christmas decoration with green foliage is of almost immemorial antiquity.