Advent Calendar 15th December 2007

Christmas Tree

It is believed that the first Christmas tree was enjoyed back in the 8th century in Germany. Boniface, an English missionary, introduced a decorated fir tree. Evergreens were originally taken into homes at this time as it was believed they had protective and magical powers by the Pagans, as they remained green during the winter. During the 18th Century decorations for the trees became popular. They were originally white or red decorations symbolising innocence and knowledge, also paper flowers, sweets, candles, gingerbread shapes were used. The first tinsel was made from stretching real silver into long strips.

By the19th century, the Christmas tree tradition had spread to other northern European countries. It was Prince Albert, Queen Victoria's husband, who first brought the Christmas tree to the UK. Glass baubles became available and the first electric lights were patented in 1882. Around seven million Christmas trees are grown in the UK each year.