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While many Christmas traditions have passed down through the centuries, the holiday has ever evolved with the times. So, what did the holiday season look like for early settlers? On the frontier, Christmas celebrations were typically much simpler than the hustle and bustle of our modern-day Christmas celebrations and focused on the spirit of the holiday. Yet, many cherished traditions and timeless themes remain the same.

Old Country Christmas in Fort Worth; Czecho-Slovakia, from left, children of Joe Merlick, Jerry Lee and Betty Jo, 1229 High Street, offer prayer before receiving Christmas gifts, 12/24/1938

The Christmas tree dates to 16th century Germany when German Christians would place a “paradise tree” in their homes on December 24th during the religious feast of Adam and Eve. Over time, this simple tradition evolved into the beautifully decorated trees we know today. In areas where trees were scarce, often one tree would be placed in a communal area like a local church instead of each home. In substitution of a traditional Christmas tree, one might be created from tumbleweeds, mesquite, cedar or juniper depending on the area. Decorations were made from readily available natural materials like evergreens, pinecones, berries, nuts, and homemade ornaments crafted from ribbon, yarn, popcorn and paper.

Meals were simple and festive, featuring local game meats (such as buffalo, deer, turkey, squirrel, rabbit and even rattlesnake) or beef, chicken and pork if you were fortunate. Side dishes included cornmeal dishes, homemade breads, preserved summer vegetables and fruits, and sweet treats such as cakes, pies and homemade candies.

The evening held a strong emphasis on family gatherings and quality time. Attending church services, visiting neighbors and sharing homemade treats and music together were an integrated part of the holidays. After meals, entertainment might consist of music played by fiddles and mouth organs accompanied with carols and dancing.

Hand-carved wooden toys were common gifts for children of early settlers. These toys were carved by Ranch Host John Levacy during the annual Candlelight at the Ranch Christmas event. Photo by Adrian Hawkins, NRHC Communications Manager.

Gifts were usually handmade and practical, reflecting the scarcity of resources in frontier life. Knitted scarves, mittens, sewn clothes and dolls, and wooden toys were all common gifts found under the Christmas tree.

Though modern Christmas is often filled with bustling activity, bright lights, and store-bought gifts, its heart remains deeply connected to the simple joys of earlier times. Like the settlers, today we gather around decorated trees—though now adorned with glittering lights and ornaments—echoing traditions that began centuries ago. Meals may be more elaborate, but the spirit of sharing and enjoying time with loved ones endures. Homemade gifts and heartfelt gestures, much like the practical and handcrafted presents of the frontier, still hold a special charm. In both eras, the true essence of Christmas shines through: togetherness, gratitude, and the celebration of enduring traditions.

 

Christmas dinner scene recreated in the 1900 Pitchfork Ranch Cookhouse during the annual Candlelight at the Ranch. Photo by Hannah Hudgens.