Ever wonder about the synbolism behind the candy cane or wreath?  In her book, Christmas and other Holiday Collectibles, Dawn Reno Langley explains the history behind the symbols of Christmas:

Santa-beloved by children every where, possibly based on St. Nicholas, a 4th Century Turkish Bishop known for kindness and compassion towards women and children. Early Santas were tall and thin, but in 1931, artist Haddon Sunblom developed the jolly old soul we know today for Coca-Cola advertisements.

Stars-Based on the one the Wise Men followed to Bethlehem.

Stockings-Possibly based on a legend where St. Nicholas visited a home in which destitute sisters without dowries hung their ragged stockings to dry on the fireplace, and St. Nick filled them with coins.

Christmas Trees-legends and myths abound concerning decorated trees, but the Christmas tree as Americans know it probably originated in Germany, where it began as a tabletop version hung with goodies such as cookies and fruit.

Candy Canes-shaped like a shepherd’s crook, or “J” for Jesus, the first candy cane was said to be made of sugar candy by a German Choirmaster as a reward for his students. In the early 1900’s, they evolved into the red and white peppermint known today.

Bells-first used to call congregants to worship in 431AD. The bells are rung to remind Christians to come to church and observe the Sabbath day.

Mistletoe-there are many Pagan legends concerning mistletoe, but it’s connection to Christmas is the belief that the cross on which Jesus was hung was made of the wood of the mistletoe tree.

Wreaths-the circular form represents Christ’s love, which has no beginning and no end.