by S. F. Heron

Created on: December 12, 2008

Does Elmo or Tigger grace the hooks on your mantle or do you have brilliant red stockings lined with fluffy white trim? Fancy or handmade, Christmas stockings are a heart warming and integral part of our holiday decorations. Add the fun of digging through a fully stuffed stocking on Christmas morning and you've got a wonderful tradition filled with sweet memories as well. But do you know why you hang the stockings with such care?

The history of Christmas stockings is intertwined with the story of St. Nicholas. St. Nicholas lived during the third century in the area that is now called Turkey. This revered patron saint lived with humility and generosity, giving to the poor and needy throughout his life. Orphaned as a young child, St. Nicholas felt compelled to give his wealth to the needy and pursue a spiritual life filled with good deeds.

The Legend

Not only was he a servant of God, but St. Nicholas had a special place in his heart for children. His need to help others fueled the origins of the legend Christmas stockings. Legend has passed down that a wealthy man with three daughters lost his wife to a devastating illness. Bereaved and lost, the father squandered his wealth, leaving his daughters without prospects, including dowry money for marriage. St. Nicholas was travelling through the town and heard the story of the destitute family.

One night, the three daughters washed their stockings and placed them near the fire to dry. St. Nicholas, determined to help, tossed three bags of coins down the chimney. The coins miraculously landed inside the girl's stocking, one for each daughter. The problem of their dowries solved, the girls now had a future. Legend states that villagers began hanging their own stockings near the fireplace in hope of receiving generous gifts from St. Nicholas.

Many cultures around the world hang stockings or fill shoes as a holiday tradition. Dutch children place clogs near the fire, stuffed with straw and carrots for the reindeer that are sure to visit Christmas night. Children around the world celebrate St. Nicholas Day on December 6th each year by placing their shoes on the front porch. St. Nicholas would happily take the straw for his animals, leaving treats and goodies inside the shoes.

Traditions

The mix of traditions around the world center on the theme of stockings or shoes left available to fill. Over time, the legend of St. Nicholas' assistance to the three daughters has evolved into what the traditions we perform today. Hanging out

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