Kris Kringle : A corruption meaning Christ Child, it was misunderstood by those living near Pennsylvania Germans to mean a bringer of gifts, and is thus now synonymous with Santa Claus. Animals : Traditionaly we think of the Nativity scene as taking place in a Stable with Animals in the background, although this is never specifically mentioned in the Biblical texts. Ruprecht : A dark and sinister companion to St Nicholas who puts the naughty children into his sack. Current usage declining. Poinsettia : A plant native to Central America with striking green foliage and bright red flower combinations, commonly used as a Christmas decoration due to it's festive colours. Christ : From the Greek, Christos (Kristos) that means Annointed, the equivalent to the Hebrew term Messiah. Although a generic term, it is also used to refer to Jesus Christ directly from some time. Christmas tradition: Every state, country, town, region, has its own tradition / costum. Sacred : Means having Religious or Theological purpose. Boxing Day : This is the day after Christmas day when all the presents are given to extended family and friends. Possibly dating from the Middle Ages when the householder would give presents to the servants and tradesmen. A public holiday in some Commonwealth countries. Bethlehem : A small town in Judea near Jerusalem, where King David was born and the birthplace of Jesus. Holiday : A time for leisure and escape from normal activities, for the purpose of rest and/or pleasure. Holidays are often taken at Christmas to coincide with school breaks. American equivalent is Vacation. FEATHER TREE Feather trees were first used used in Germany when the cutting down of live trees was banned.
How Feather Trees are made Feathertree Christmas trees are \"handmade\" reproductions using real goose feathers. The trees come in a variety of colors, although the most popular are \"dark green" and "ivory.\" Feathertree colors and sizes may vary slightly because of the handmade quality. There are still great old feather trees around. If interested in purchasing an old one, test the brittleness of the feathers. Many of the old trees can be restored.
History of the Feather Tree The tradition of feather trees began in Germany in the mid-19th century, when the cutting-down of trees was banned to save German woodlands.