When we think of a 19th century Christmas we generally are reminded of the convergence of writings and events that influenced or even established so many of the traditions and customs we still practice today –
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol (readings of which were recently given by his great great grandson Gerald Charles Dickens at Park Avenue Christian Church in New York) —
Clement Moore’s ‘A Night Before Christmas’ –
Prince Albert introducing the Christmas tree to Queen Victoria’s court from his native Germany.
Even Washington Irving’s comic essays ‘Christmas Eve’ and ‘Christmas Day’ – both very popular in their day if not as well remembered now — were influential in how Victorians came to perceive a ‘traditional’ Christmas with Irving’s colorful descriptions of coach rides through the English countryside, decorating, games, parties, church services, Christmas dinner, and cozy chats by the fireside of an ancient English manor. Such evocative descriptions led British and Americans both to emulate these inviting scenes and customs.
Such holiday practices were not lost on Disciples minister George Darsie of First Christian Church in 1884 Frankfort, Kentucky. His diary entries — now being entered as tweets at www.twitter.com/GeorgeDarsie — reveal his knowledge and embrace of 19th century popular customs: riding his horse Charley out to the country to find a Christmas tree for his Sunday School class, shopping for toys and candy in Louisville, ice skating, reading Dickens by the fire, and more. At the same time, his usual routines and duties remained in place: preparing sermons, preaching funerals, visiting the sick, and treating his dog for mange. Celebrate Christmas with Brother Darsie on Twitter and experience the rich, full life of a Disciples minister over a century ago.
From Disciples of Christ Historical Society — have a peaceful happy holiday season.
Sara Harwell 12/23/2009