The tradition of sending Christmas cards is a beloved part of the holiday season for many people around the world These cards come in all shapes and sizes, featuring various themes from religious to whimsical, and are often displayed proudly in homes during the festive season But have you ever wondered when this tradition began? When did Christmas cards start?
The practice of sending greeting cards during the Christmas season can be traced back to the 19th century The concept of sending seasonal greetings in written form dates back even further, with the ancient Chinese and Egyptians exchanging messages of good will during New Year celebrations However, the modern Christmas card as we know it today has its origins in Victorian England.
The first commercial Christmas card is credited to Sir Henry Cole, a British civil servant and educator who was looking for a way to streamline his holiday correspondence in 1843 With the help of his friend, artist John Horsley, Cole commissioned a design that featured a festive scene of a family enjoying Christmas dinner and a message of “A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You.” This card was produced in a limited quantity and sold for the price of a shilling, making it more of a luxury item at the time.
The idea of sending Christmas cards caught on quickly, and by the late 19th century, the practice had become widespread in England and the United States The introduction of the penny post in 1840, which made sending mail more affordable and efficient, also contributed to the popularity of Christmas cards The cards were often elaborately decorated with intricate designs, including embossing, lace, and glitter, and became a way for people to showcase their wealth and social status.
In addition to being a means of holiday greetings, Christmas cards also served as a medium for artistic expression Many famous artists and illustrators created designs for Christmas cards, including William Morris, Walter Crane, and Louis Prang These beautifully crafted cards were treasured by recipients and often kept as keepsakes for years to come.
As the popularity of Christmas cards grew, so did the variety of designs and messages when did christmas cards start. Religious themes were common, with scenes depicting the Nativity, angels, and shepherds However, secular images such as Santa Claus, snowmen, and winter landscapes also became popular In addition to the traditional greeting of “Merry Christmas,” cards began to feature messages of peace, joy, and blessings for the New Year.
The tradition of sending Christmas cards continued to evolve throughout the 20th century with the advent of new printing techniques and technologies Mass production made cards more affordable and accessible to a wider audience, and the introduction of photo cards allowed people to personalize their greetings with family portraits and snapshots from their holiday celebrations.
Despite the rise of digital communication and e-cards, the tradition of sending physical Christmas cards remains strong today Many people still enjoy the personal touch of a handwritten message and the joy of receiving a card in the mail Some even collect vintage Christmas cards as a hobby, appreciating the artistry and sentimentality of these historical artifacts.
In conclusion, the tradition of sending Christmas cards has a long and rich history that dates back to the 19th century From its humble beginnings as a luxury item for the wealthy to its widespread popularity as a form of holiday greetings, Christmas cards have evolved and adapted to changing times while still retaining their sentimental value So next time you send a Christmas card to a loved one, take a moment to appreciate the history and tradition behind this cherished holiday custom Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!