May the Holiday Season Bring You Peace and Joy

If decorating a Christmas tree with ornaments for the holiday season is one of your traditions, have you ever wondered when that custom began? I did a little online research into when ornaments were first used to decorate a Christmas tree.

In 1605 in Germany, a fir tree was brought inside and adorned with paper roses, candles, nuts, and fruits, and the idea of decorating a tree indoors spread. Later, German immigrants brought the tradition to America.

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 of glass ornaments to America and sold millions for a number of years.

Now, Christmas tree ornaments have come to represent the interests of each family. Many families collect ornaments throughout their travels. 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, such as the Hallmark collections featuring sports stars, movies, cartoon characters, classic cars and more.

“America250,” the upcoming 2026 celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Decoration of Independence on July 4, 1776, has issued an ornament. (I case you are interested in seeing or purchasing the ornament, it is available at the “America250” store at: https://store.america250.org/collections/accessories).

(Things went a little wild with aluminum Christmas trees in the mid-1950s to mid-1960s. Do you have one stored in your attic or basement?)

Say a prayer for your loved ones who are ill or grieving. May they experience the promise of the season. Remember the men and women in uniform – peace officers, firemen/EMTs and military – who work to keep us safe. If you will be traveling, be safe.

Whether Christmas and decorating a tree is part of your tradition or if you celebrate Hanukkah or Kwanzaa, I wish you peace and joy.

Bill Kadereit, President
National Retiree Legislative Network