[sotd] Visions of Christmas [December 23, 2011]
- From: "Site of the Day" <amholm@xxxxxxxxxxx>
- To: sotd@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
- Date: Fri, 23 Dec 2011 10:14:32 -0400
Site of the Day for Friday, December 23, 2011
"In this genial season of all good things" may the Yuletide celebrations of
all Gentle Subscribers and their Families be festive and merry.
Visions of Christmas
Today's site, from the American Antiquarian Society, presents a look at
charming 19th century Christmas images. Gentle Subscribers will discover
some surprising facts, as well as how perceptions, celebrations and even
concepts of the holiday have transformed over time.
"Christmas has a long history, though the way we celebrate it today has
changed significantly over the years. ... Because of Puritan beliefs, it
was illegal to celebrate Christmas as a Christian holiday in Massachusetts
from 1659 to 1681 ..." - from the website
Divided into four parts, this captivating exhibit features an overview of
the origins of Christmas, noting the comparatively recent observance of the
religious Christmas holiday as distinct from the longstanding pagan
celebrations of Yule and the winter solstice. Among the highlights are
illustrations of Santa from nineteenth century publications, very early
Christmas cards and a history of the Christmas tree. In addition, a
splendid reproduction of F.O.C. Darley's 1879 illustrated version of "A
Visit from Saint Nicholas" is also included.
Soar over to the site for an engaging exhibit on Christmas past at:
http://www.americanantiquarian.org/Exhibitions/Christmas/
A.M. Holm
Comments? Suggestions? <amholm@xxxxxxxxxxx>
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