December 18, 2024
As we dive into the magic of the Christmas season, someone recently asked me, “How old is Santa Claus?”
A quick online search revealed that the jolly man himself is over 1,750 years old. Not bad for his age, right?
This got me thinking: Where did our other beloved Christmas characters come from, and how long have they been part of our traditions?
Santa Claus
The legend of Santa Claus, as we know him today, originates from a monk named Nicholas, born between 260 and 280 A.D. in Patara (modern-day Turkey). His passing, traditionally marked on December 6, led to the celebration of St. Nicholas Day in some cultures.
Father Christmas first appeared in English writings in 1435, making him 589 years old. Charles Dickens is often credited for popularizing the image of Father Christmas in green, similar to the Spirit of Christmas Present in A Christmas Carol. It wasn’t until the 1830s that he became synonymous with the red coat, thanks to Clement Clarke Moore’s famous poem, A Visit from St. Nicholas, and the magazine illustrations of the era.
Christmas Elves
Christmas elves, as tiny, pointy-eared helpers, first appeared in literature in 1850 in an unpublished manuscript by Louisa May Alcott. However, the concept of elves dates back to ancient Norse mythology and Germanic folklore. Elves have been companions to Santa for centuries, but they haven’t always been the cheerful helpers we know today.
In many European countries, Santa or St. Nicholas is accompanied by a darker, sometimes sinister figure who punishes naughty children. One of the most infamous of these is Krampus—a horned, serpent-tongued, furry demon who carries away misbehaving kids. Some legends even claim he is the son of Odin, placing his origins between 4,000 and 5,000 years ago. You better watch out, indeed!
Jack Frost
Jack Frost first appeared in literature in 1732, which makes him 292 years old. However, he has been chilling windowpanes and nipping at noses for over 400 years. Known by many names across Europe—such as Mother Holle in Germany and King Bore in Sweden—Jack has long been a symbol of winter’s frosty touch.
The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker, made famous by Tchaikovsky’s ballet in 1892, is just 132 years old. However, the story of The Nutcracker and the Mouse King dates back to 1816 (208 years), and its adaptation by Alexandre Dumas came in 1844 (180 years ago). The nutcracker figure itself, with its large head and powerful jaw, has existed since 1650, making it 374 years old.
Snowmen
Snowmen have been around in writing since 1380, making our frosty outdoor friends 644 years old. Frosty the Snowman, however, is still a baby, debuting in the classic song from 1950, which makes him just 74 years old.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
In 1939, Montgomery Ward commissioned Robert L. May to create a new holiday character. He created Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer by drawing inspiration from his experiences with his daughter at the zoo, the foggy weather, and his childhood struggles with bullying. Rudolph is now 85 years old.
May’s brother-in-law, lyricist Johnny Marks, popularized Rudolph’s story through the classic song we all know today, written in 1949. Marks would go on to write other famous holiday hits, including Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree and A Holly Jolly Christmas.
The Grinch
Finally, we can’t forget the characters who detest Christmas. Dr. Seuss’s Grinch, created in 1957, is an ugly, mean-spirited creature who tries to steal Christmas, only to discover its true meaning lies in togetherness. In the story, the Grinch is 53 years old, making him 120 years old today.
From songs and movies to books and TV specials, these beloved Christmas characters continue to capture our imaginations. Whether they’re ancient legends or modern creations, they remind us of the joy and magic of the season.
Andrew E.
Red Bridge Branch
