by Sherri A. Stanczak

Created on: November 29, 2009

IS THERE REALLY A SANTA CLAUS?

Did you believe in Santa as a child? If so, did you wonder where the story came from the jolly old man with a red suit, white beard and the Ho Ho Ho? Actually, there really was a Santa Claus. Of course, the story has been passed down from years ago and there are some stories about him that are conflicting. Santa is what he is today because of many people in the past. Between myths, stories and biographies, it took awhile to create the jolly little man who we know as Santa Claus today.

Where Did It All Begin?

Santa was born around 300 A.D. to a wealthy family. Unfortunately, his parents died when he was very young from an outbreak of a plague. He was raised in an orphanage. He was noted of being special with his warm heart and unusual generosity. He was even the youngest priest of his time, at age 17. Later he became the Bishop of Myra (which is Turkey today), and he was named St. Nicholas.

Since he came from a prosperous family, he liked to share his wealth with the needy. He was especially known for his love and generosity to children. He left presents for children, who were good. Many people believed that he could perform miracles, bring people back from the dead and had other special powers. In fact, he became the patron saint of Russia. He was remembered for his generosity and kindness. The Bishop's long, white beard and his luxurious red cape was how he was pictured.

How His Tradition Carried On

Throughout Europe, it seemed that everyone was very dedicated to him. In Belgium, he was known as the patron saint of children and travelers. In Greece, he was known as the patron saint of sailors. In France, he was known as the patron saint of lawyers. Around the 12th century, they made a holiday in his honor called St. Nicholas day. It was celebrated with gift giving and it was on December 6th because that's the day he supposedly was born on and also the day he died. Some people still celebrate this day and gifts are exchanged.

Even though the memory of St. Nicholas lost its popularity in Europe, the Dutch still carried out this legend; however, they called him Sint Nikolaas, which was later transformed to Sinterklaas. The Dutch children left their wooden shoes by the fireplace. The good children were rewarded with treats that were left in their shoes by Sinterklaas. During the 17th century, the Dutch brought the same tradition to America. It was at that time, when his name was changed to Santa Claus.

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