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Dec 16
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The Birth of the Christmas Card

The First Christmas Card Commissioned by Henry Cole

Henry Cole’s Vision for a New Tradition

In 1843, the world saw the creation of the first commercially printed Christmas card, a concept envisioned by Henry Cole. A prominent figure in Victorian society and one of the founders of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, Cole aimed to initiate a new holiday tradition that would spread joy and connect people. The card featured a festive family scene and bears the message, 'A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You.'

How the First Christmas Card Came to Life

Henry Cole realized that the growing postal service could be utilized to enhance communication during the holiday season. He commissioned the notable firm of Prang to produce this card, which was printed in a run of about 1,000 copies. The new holiday card was an innovative way to share Christmas greetings and quickly gained popularity among those who received it.

The Impact of Henry Cole’s Christmas Card on Culture

Spreading the Joy of Sending Greeting Cards

The introduction of Cole’s Christmas card coincided with the evolution of societal customs around letter writing. Soon, sending Christmas cards would transform into a beloved tradition, bridging distances between family and friends. By the late 19th century, the custom of exchanging Christmas cards became widespread, laying the foundation for the extensive holiday greeting card industry we see today.

The Influence of Victorian Values on Christmas Cards

The Victorian era emphasized family values, togetherness, and community, which resonated strongly in the themes of these early Christmas cards. Henry Cole’s initial card reflected these ideals beautifully. His endeavor not only marked a commercial success but also significantly influenced how Christmas would be celebrated in years to come.

Fun Fact

Henry Cole’s Lasting Legacy

Even after the first card was printed, Henry Cole continued advocating for the enjoyment of Christmas through his work with public institutions, ultimately contributing greatly to how we perceive and celebrate this festive season.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Christmas Traditions

For those interested in learning more, explore classics like “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens or delve into “The Story of Christmas” for a richer understanding of the holiday's history.