Each Monday from now until Christmas, I’ll post an Old World Christmas tradition. I’ve asked some of my writer friends to join me and this week Darlene Franklin shares the story of her German immigrant characters in her book Lone Star Trail.
“Wande Fleischer’s first Christmas in Texas could have been disastrous. Her sister had succumbed to illness upon their arrival, and their wagon had broken down, delaying her reunion with her fiancé in New Braunfels. But when the Morgan family took the Fleishers in, they found ways to bring the Old World and the New World together.
Christmas trees weren’t part of the American Christmas tradition in 1845. Jud Morgan wasn’t sure what he thought of the idea, but he could see how important it was to the Fleischers. They cut down an acacia tree instead of the usual fir, decorated it with chains of popcorn and cranberries and candles, all the while sharing what the different symbols meant for them – eternal life, the star of Bethlehem, etc. They formed a circle around the tree, sang O Tannenbaum, and celebrated the coming of the Savior—together.”
Thanks, Darlene. That sounds like a great read – perfect for the Christmas season.
I still have openings, so if you’d like to share a family story, recipe, tradition from the Old World – whether you’re a writer or not – contact me so we can set up a date.