LYCOS RETRIEVER 
Christmas Traditions: Trees
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The Wichita Eagle reported on Dec. 24 2002 on odd Christmas traditions. The Eagle noted that "then there's that Gherkinbaum tradition. It's sort of a combination of an old German tradition about pickle-shaped ornaments for the Tannenbaum, combined with weird science that says a dill pickle plugged into a wall outlet will glow like a 40-watt light bulb. Gerald Graves decided to try the science for himself, using an old electric cord, some nails and a jar of gherkins. It worked. A few years later, the novelty had worn off, so he went back to the workshop to decorate the pickle like a Christmas tree.
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According to legend, there is a very old Christmas Eve tradition in Germany consisting of hiding a pickle ornament in the branches of the Christmas tree. Whoever found it would have good luck in the coming year. True? About.com's German Guide Hyde Flippo says "Bah, humbug!"
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The success of Christmas tree in Protestant countries was enhanced by the legend which attributed the tradition to Martin Luther himself (in Catholic countries the custom was unknown up to this century). In England the tradition was popularized by the German Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria. The German immigrants brought the Christmas tree to America in 17th century. Public outdoors Christmas trees with electric candles were introduced in Finland in 1906, and in USA (New York) in 1912.
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Why put up with a lifeless, boring and mass produced plastic Christmas tree when you can have a beautiful, aromatic and unique real Christmas tree without the traditional problem of hoovering up the pine needles. Things have moved on, better Christmas tree stands mean you can now keep the needles on your real Christmas tree. Read on for full instructions
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The use of evergreen trees as Christmas decorations is an evolved tradition. Legend has it that one Christmas evening Saint Boniface was walking through the forest and came upon a ritualistic human sacrifice. Outraged, he took an axe away from the pagans and struck a sacred oak with it. Upon the stroke of his axe, a mighty wind blew down the tree.
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The traditions of many cultures come together in the decorating of a special tree during the holidays. This lesson plan introduces the uses of evergreen trees, logs, and the special place of lights from ancient to modern times.
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