Hackettstown NJ
2009

Decorating the Christmas tree is one of the most cherished holiday traditions around the world. Families gather together each year, pull out boxes of beloved Christmas ornaments, and make memories together. Many of these memories form the basis for traditions that are passed down from generation to generation.

But how did ornaments come to play such a large role in our Christmas experiences?

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The idea of decorating a tree for Christmas began in Germany, where they used to add fruits and nuts to trees once the leaves fell off to symbolize the promise of spring to come.

But in 1605, a fur tree was brought inside and adorned with paper roses, candles, nuts, and fruits, which was groundbreaking! The idea of decorating a tree indoors took off and spread across Germany.

In the 1800s, German immigrants brought the tradition to America, who made their own interpretations. Early ornaments were made out of whatever items that families had available to them – fruit (especially apples), nuts, strings of popcorn and cranberries, paper streamers, candles, and metal foil. They really came to show off American inventiveness!

Fun fact: Even before Christmas lights were invented, we loved the idea of lighting up a tree. Bits of foil were often added to reflect the light in the room and make the tree glisten!

You know those sets of round plastic ornaments you decorate your tree with? Well, those originated in Germany, too!

Hans Greiner started making glass ball ornaments (called baubles) during the 1800s, which became the first manufactured Christmas ornaments. In the late 19th century, the enterprising F.W. Woolworth brought the idea to America, where he sold more than $25 million worth per year.

Eventually, manufacturers began using injection molding (injecting molten material into a mould) with plastic materials, which allowed for a variety of other shapes and sizes.

Fun fact: The round shape of the bauble originates from the shape of the original decorating material – fruits and nuts.

Now, Christmas tree ornaments have come to really represent the interests of each individual family. For example, many families collect ornaments throughout their travels as visual representations of memories. Others purchase customized ornaments with the year of anniversaries, births, or other milestones engraved or stamped on them. Ornaments representing interests have become popular too, showcasing sports, movie characters, hobbies, musicians, favorite colors, and more.

Themed trees are a relatively new Christmas trend that’s quickly catching on! You’ll see everything from coastal trees (shells and sand dollars) to retro trees (mercury glass and pastels), movie-themed trees (movie characters and symbols) to rustic trees (pinecones and woodland animals). They’re really becoming representations of each individual family’s interests and preferences.

Fun fact: Hallmark Keepsake ornaments originated in 1973 with a small line of glass ball ornaments and yarn figures. Since then, over 8500 ornaments have been introduced, used to celebrate milestones by families all over the world.