History of St. Nicholas
Ho, ho, ho! Merry Christmas!
Christmas would not be Christmas without Santa Claus, as it’s this white-bearded man that delivers the gifts on Christmas Eve and brings immense joy to children throughout the world. But have you ever wondered where the jolly fat man came from?
History has it that a long, long time ago there was a bishop named Saint Nicholas who lived in Myra, (now Demre in Turkey). Saint Nicholas had a great love for children, and he would often give needy children gifts in order to brighten up their day. Unfortunately, there is little more information about this kind bishop, as he led a quiet life. Many years after Saint Nicholas’ death he was made a Saint, and in time became the patron saint of children. To this very day, the 6th December is a very important day in some countries around Europe. Saint Nicholas, otherwise fondly known as Santa Claus or Father Christmas, continues to bring enormous joy and happiness to children all around the world.
Coca-Cola in the 1930′s, created the image Santa Claus we all know today. They converted the tall skinny image of Saint Nicholas into a jolly, round, old man whose eyes twinkled with joy! Each year Coca-Cola would use Santa in a different pose for their advertising campaign, it was a tradition that lasted for 35 years.
Facts about Santa Claus
* Santa Claus lives in the North Pole with Mrs. Claus, the reindeer and all of the Elves.
* Santa has nine reindeer. They are: Comet, Cupid, Vixen, Dancer, Prancer, Dasher, Blitzen, Donder and, of course, Rudolph!
* Elves are trained at a special Elf school at the North Pole, and graduate with a special Elf Diploma!
* Santa keeps a ‘naughty’ and ‘nice’ list, which he refers to when packing the presents on Christmas Eve. Remember, Santa is always watching!
* Santa has a Hall of Fame room where he pays tribute to past Elves who have done magical work!
