Saint Nicholas, a fourth-century bishop from Myra, Turkey, is an iconic figure in the Christmas season. Known for his generosity and kindness, Saint Nicholas has been celebrated for centuries as the patron saint of children, sailors, and those in need. His legend spread through Europe, and by the 17th century, he had become a beloved figure in the Netherlands, where the name “Sinterklaas” was derived.
Saint Nicholas became Santa Claus in the United States, known for his iconic red suit, white beard, and jolly laugh. He is famously associated with his eight reindeer, who are said to pull his sleigh of gifts worldwide on Christmas Eve. Their names, famously immortalized in the poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” by Clement Clarke Moore, are Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, and Blitzen. And, of course, there’s the most famous reindeer of all: Rudolph, with his shiny red nose.
The History of Saint Nicholas and His Reindeers
Saint Nicholas, a bishop from Myra, Turkey, lived during the fourth century and was known for his generosity and kindness. His legend spread throughout Europe, and by the 17th century, he had become a beloved figure in the Netherlands, where the name “Sinterklaas” was derived. Saint Nicholas became Santa Claus in the United States, known for his iconic red suit, white beard, and jolly laugh. He is famously associated with his eight reindeer, who are said to pull his sleigh of gifts worldwide on Christmas Eve.
The Modern Tradition of the Elf on the Shelf
The Elf on the Shelf is a modern holiday tradition that has become increasingly popular recently. The Elf is a posable doll that serves as a scout for Santa Claus, checking on children’s behavior throughout the holiday season. The tradition of the Elf on the Shelf dates back to the 1970s when Carol Aebersold wrote a story to entertain her daughters during the holidays. The story was not published until 2005, when Aebersold’s daughter, Chanda Bell, teamed up with illustrator Coë Steinwart to create the beloved book and doll now found in homes worldwide.
While Saint Nicholas is steeped in ancient tradition, the Elf on the Shelf is a more modern holiday tradition that has become increasingly popular recently. The Elf is a posable doll that serves as a scout for Santa Claus, checking on children’s behavior throughout the holiday season. The Elf is often placed in different spots around the house daily, with children looking for him when they wake up.
The tradition of the Elf on the Shelf dates back to the 1970s when Carol Aebersold wrote a story to entertain her daughters during the holidays. The story was not published until 2005, when Aebersold’s daughter, Chanda Bell, teamed up with illustrator Coë Steinwart to create the beloved book and doll now found in homes worldwide.
The magic of Saint Nicholas, his reindeer, and the Elf on the Shelf is felt most acutely during the holiday season when families gather to celebrate with warm fires crackling in the background. Season’s Greetings are exchanged, and all feel the season’s joy.
As you celebrate with your loved ones this holiday season, take a moment to reflect on the history and magic of Saint Nicholas, the beloved reindeer that pulled his sleigh, and the modern tradition of the Elf on the Shelf. The practices that we honor year after year connect us to our past, to our community, and the spirit of the season.