Cultural Evolution of Christmas Tree Decorations

The history of Christmas trees is littered with tales of the first pines which stood in the houses of everyone from dignitaries and professors to a simple tailor in Ohio who may possibly be the first person to have decorated a tree. Whether these initial trees were used as political statements or amusement for children, they were the pioneers in displaying various Christmas tree decorations.

Just as vehicles, clothing and even technology has changed over the years, decorations have evolved as well. The first tree ornaments were normally handmade, either designs made of paper or even baked goods. Various nuts, sugar cookies and garlands made of popcorn were common adornments for early Christmas trees. Items found in nature could be used as ornaments too. Dried berries, pine cones, twigs and winter blossoms added special touches to pioneer pine branches.

As years passed, ornaments became representative of the times. In the 1940's, people would bring home a real tree and decorate it with a flashy topper, large, brightly colored bulbs and "Angel Hair". This decorative addition was actually spun from fiber glass. While it was a nice detail, it could be a bit painful if touched incorrectly! The trees of the 1950's were commonly decorated with shiny bright glass balls. But this is also when dainty, sparkly silver icicles became popular. With a flick of the wrist, these strings could add shimmer to any tree and a huge mess to clean up after the holidays.

Decorations really took on a new life in the 1960's when most homes finally stopped searching for a real tree and purchased the aluminum Christmas tree. The main decoration for these trees was the color wheel that was used to illuminate the branches in four varying colors. As the wheel turned, the tree would change it's colorful display. The wheel also took the place of traditional lights as those became a fire hazard when placed on the aluminum.

You can still find a safe aluminum Christmas tree here.

Christmas tree decorations not only includes the  ornaments but tree toppers and tree skirts as well. Tree toppers have changed from foil angels and plastic Santa faces to stars, bows and ribbons. Until recently, lighted toppers were among the most popular. However, people are now leaning towards toppers that fit their overall tree theme or even room decor.

Tree skirts began as functional pieces, not decorative items. They were normally plain mats that would protect the floor from wax or sap drippings. Over time, skirts became another way to display holiday cheer. Choices now include homemade pieces and commercial skirts manufactured in every color, fabric and theme imaginable.

It has been recorded that last year alone, Americans purchased upwards of 40 million trees for the holiday. This does not include those who put up a tree they previously purchased. This is one Christmas tradition that has withstood the test of time. Christmas tree decorations continue to evolve and change with the culture, but the basic joy of putting up a tree is one of the most enjoyable aspects of the season.