The Royal Christmas Tree at Windsor Castle
Christmas Special 2023 - How Queen Victoria and Prince Albert changed traditions in 1848
Hey there, friend,
Greetings from the past!
After leaving ancient Constantinople a few days ago, I find myself in England this time - as I am writing to you, I'm sitting in one of the many dining rooms within the grand walls of Windsor Castle. The year is 1848, and the castle is bustling with activities because Christmas is approaching. Hundreds are working on preparing the castle for the grant Christmas party that Queen Victoria and Prince Albert are about to host in a few days, and one piece of decoration is about to change the look of British traditions forever.
It'll change the look of Christmas so much that people in your time say that Christmas time hasn't begun until Windsor Castle is decorated.
Windsor Castle
First, let me tell you about Windsor Castle. It has immense historical significance, and its architecture is fascinating to explore. Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, it sits west of London at a strategically important place close to the Thames.
While its purpose was initially to show strength and protect the city, it has since been the home of 39 monarchs who used it for various purposes. Queen Elizabeth II used it as her official weekend residence. The castle has witnessed a large part of English history, from medieval battles to the grandeur of the Victorian era, and is the largest continuously inhabited castle in the world.
Over time, the castle has become a fusion of centuries of architectural evolution. Its Round Tower stands as a proud sentinel, while St. George's Chapel, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, rests within. The State Apartments are a study in luxury, adorned with artworks by masters like Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrandt.
The Christmas of 1848
But I know you want to know about this thing that is about to change British traditions: The Christmas tree. Yes, this concept is not new in Europe, but here in England, it's a relatively novel sight.
Queen Victoria and Prince Albert (who has a fantastic name) have decided to introduce this charming tradition to the English people. As I have seen earlier when they set it in one of the grand rooms, the tree is a tall standing fir decorated with candles, sweets, fruits, and handcrafted ornaments, casting a warm and festive glow.
This Christmas tree is more than just a decorative element; it symbolizes a changing era. It represents a blend of cultural traditions – Prince Albert, of German descent, brought this custom from his homeland. The tree's presence here is a testament to the blending of cultures.
Tomorrow, Victoria, Albert, and their children will pose for the official royal Christmas drawing. It will spark a massive interest in this new decorative piece and because the royals had it, soon, everybody tried to get one as well. Because a Christmas tree, as well as the decorative ornaments, was very expensive in the beginning, only the noble and wealthy could afford a decorated tree, and a Christmas tree was like a status symbol. Over the years, they'll become more accessible until everyone will bring a bit of the royal Christmas feeling of Windsor Castle into their own home.
The Christmas tree - a short history
As we adore the decorated Christmas tree in Windsor Castle, let me tell you about the fascinating history of this festive symbol. The Christmas tree, as we know it today, is steeped in rich traditions that span cultures and centuries.
Before Christianity, ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Romans used evergreens to symbolize life and agricultural abundance during the cold winter. Later, this tradition evolved in the Middle Ages, where the Paradise Tree, an evergreen decorated with apples, symbolized the Tree of Knowledge in the Garden of Eden. This custom, prevalent in Germany, is a precursor to our modern Christmas tree.
In the 16th century, bringing decorated trees into homes during Christmas gained popularity in Germany. Legend has it that Martin Luther, the Protestant reformer, was the first to adorn a tree with lighted candles. He walked home in the dark one day and was captivated by the beautiful sight of the stars twinkling through the branches of an evergreen.
And today, in 1848, the Christmas tree is making its next big step by conquering the homes of the British and, subsequentially, American homes.
As I write to you, the castle is becoming alive with the sounds of Christmas carols and children's laughter. The festivities are about to start, and because they'll decorate the room I'm sitting in now, I'm afraid I must leave you.
From the year 1848, I send you the warmest of Christmas greetings. And when you look at a Christmas tree today, think about this special day because if it wasn't for this picture, you might not seen any decorated evergreens today.
And this, my friend, concludes our story for today.
I don't know from where and when I'll write you next time, but be sure to stay on the lookout for my letters.
🧳
Albert
Your time-traveling uncle
Quick facts
Queen Victoria
Born on May 24, 1819, Queen Victoria was the daughter of Prince Edward, Duke of Kent and Strathearn, and Princess Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld.
Victoria became Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland on June 20, 1837, and she reigned until she died in 1901, making her the second longest-reigning British monarch after Queen Elizabeth II.
She married Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha in 1840, and they had nine children; their descendants include many of Europe's royal families.
The Victorian era, named after her, was a period of significant industrial, cultural, political, scientific, and military change within the United Kingdom.
Queen Victoria was the first monarch to reside at Buckingham Palace and was known for her strong sense of duty and devotion to her country.
The royal Christmas photo
Origin: The tradition of the British Royal Family releasing a Christmas photo can be traced back to the early 20th century. It became more regular and publicized during Queen Elizabeth II's reign.
Public Engagement: The Christmas photo is a way for the Royal Family to engage with the public, offering a personal glimpse into their lives and sharing festive cheer.
Broadcasting Christmas Messages: The photo often accompanies the Queen's Christmas Day broadcast, a tradition started by King George V in 1932, where the monarch addresses the nation and the Commonwealth.
Family Focus: The photos typically focus on the immediate royal family and may highlight significant milestones or anniversaries celebrated that year.
Global Distribution: These Christmas photos are distributed worldwide and often feature in international media, symbolizing the global interest in the British monarchy.