The Royal Roots of Table Top Christmas Trees
Did you know that table top Christmas trees have a regal history dating back to medieval times? It all began with the tradition of bringing a fresh pine or fir tree into the home during the winter solstice celebrations. In those times, this symbolized new life amidst the darkness of winter.
But in the early modern period, the idea of a miniature tree for tabletops began to take root. During the Renaissance, the courts of Europe, particularly in Germany and Scandinavia, began to decorate miniature trees to create an enchanting winter wonderland ambiance. However, it was still a custom reserved for the elite.
It was in the 19th century that table top trees came into widespread use. One of the critical drivers of their widespread adoption was the romanticization of medieval times. With books like Ivanhoe and the works of other great romantic writers, the idea of the noble king and queen enjoying a miniature Christmas tree in their castle became very appealing to the masses.
From here, table top trees grew in popularity. By the early 1900s, factories began mass-producing miniature Christmas trees with built-in lights, making them accessible to everyone. They were still made mainly from frosted bristles, but later models used aluminum or plastic.
The Role of Lights on Table Top Trees
Christmas tree lighted has been an essential component of holiday decorations since the introduction of electricity in the 19th century. The first string of Christmas lights was created in 1882 by Edward Johnson, a friend of Thomas Edison. However, in the early 20th century, electric lights began to be used on table top Christmas trees.
In the early days, the electric lights were large and bulky, meaning they couldn’t be easily hung around a tree. Instead, they were typically used as downlights, shining onto the decorations and ornaments beneath.
By the 1920s, manufacturers had found a way to produce small, bulb-shaped bulbs that could fit onto tabletop tree branches. These lights were the first to be truly practical for miniature trees, and soon, they became a key component of holiday decorations.
In conclusion, table top Christmas trees have come a long way from their humble beginnings as a symbol of new life during the winter solstice. They have grown in popularity thanks to the romanticization of medieval times, and the widespread use of electric lights has made them a staple of holiday decorations worldwide. Next time you decorate your table top tree, remember its royal roots and the incredible journey it has undergone to become the beloved symbol of Christmas that it is today.
