Depending on where you live and what traditions you follow, you might follow any number of gift-giving traditions. There are a few constants that we see across many traditions, and one of those is stockings. Who can put them out, where they are hung for gifts, and what gifts end up inside can all vary. (And there are no right or wrong answers- we all celebrate differently, and that is good!) So, for the last Holiday History Bite before Christmas, I am exploring the history of Christmas stockings!
When Did Christmas Stockings First Appear?
Stockings are first mentioned in the medieval period. Apparently Saint Nicholas saved three young girls from a life of destitution and poverty by leaving bags of gold in their stockings for Christmas.
Where Are Stockings Hung?
Stockings can be hung or placed in many different places. With the advent of Santa Clause and his chimney mode-of-entry, it became common in the nineteenth century to hang your stockings on the mantel. Many people still do that now, but many houses, apartments, and dwellings don’t have a fireplace to hang your stocking. Other preferred locations include at the window sill, at the foot of the bed, and by the front door! (Most of those are fairly easy access for a supernatural visitor, save for the end of the bed…)
What Goes In Christmas Stockings?
In most traditions, the stocking is for smaller gifts. You might find fruit, candies, chocolates, small books or other consumables. In my family, we tend to get smaller toiletries and Christmas chocolates (as an adult, I now appreciate getting new socks for Christmas…) Some families will do larger presents in their stockings, as well.
Did you know the history of Christmas stockings? And do you still hang one?
Cheers,
The Historian
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