American Colonial Christmas

Christmas celebrations in colonial America varied widely, influenced by regional customs, religious beliefs, and cultural backgrounds, leading to a mix of festive traditions and controversies.

Overview of Celebrations

In colonial America, Christmas was not universally celebrated and opinions on the holiday varied significantly among different groups. Some settlers embraced Christmas traditions from Europe, while others, particularly Puritans, rejected the holiday due to its pagan origins. The celebration of Christmas as we know it today evolved over time, with many of the familiar customs not becoming widespread until the 19th century.

Regional Differences

·         New England: In Puritan New England, Christmas was often frowned upon and even banned in some areas. The Puritans viewed the holiday as a time of excess and immorality, leading to strict enforcement against its celebration.

·         Southern Colonies: In contrast, the southern colonies, such as Virginia and Maryland, celebrated Christmas with enthusiasm. Wealthy plantation owners hosted lavish feasts and festivities that included dancing, games, and social gatherings. The Christmas season often extended until Twelfth Night, with celebrations featuring rich foods and drinks.

·         Middle Colonies: The middle colonies exhibited a mix of attitudes towards Christmas, with diverse populations leading to varied celebrations. Some communities embraced the holiday, while others maintained a more subdued observance.

Common Traditions and Activities

·         Feasting and Merriment: Christmas meals were often grand affairs, especially in the southern colonies, where dishes like roast beef, turkey, and various pies were common. For example, George Washington's Christmas banquet included turtle soup, venison, and a variety of wines and cordials.

·         Singing and Dancing: Caroling and dancing were popular activities during the Christmas season. In many households, music played a significant role in the festivities, with skilled musicians often hired for celebrations.

·         Gift-Giving: While some families exchanged gifts, this practice was not as widespread as it is today. More common was the tradition of giving small gifts to the poor or to servants.

Conclusion

Christmas in colonial America was a complex and evolving celebration, marked by regional differences and cultural influences. While some groups embraced the holiday with joy and festivity, others viewed it with skepticism or outright disdain. The traditions that emerged during this period laid the groundwork for the modern Christmas celebrations we recognize today.

“A Very Mount Vernon Christmas.” George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association. https://www.mountvernon.org/the-estate-gardens/mount-vernon-christmas/

https://www.history.com/articles/christmas-13-colonies-puritans

DeSimone, David. “Another Look at Christmas in the Eighteenth Century.” The Colonial Williamsburg Interpreter 16, no. 4 (Winter 1995-96). Retrieved from https://www.slaveryandremembrance.org/almanack/life/christmas/hist_anotherlook.cfm