Christmas trees are a custom that can be found in almost every home when the holiday season draws near. Decorated with lights, ornaments, and garlands, a Christmas tree brings joy to every home. But how did it become one of the greatest traditions in the modern world? How does it fit in with Christmas?
The beginnings of Christmas trees have many myths. One legend states that Martin Luther, who initiated the Protestant Reformation, believed that evergreens (specifically pines) represented the goodness of God. Although this may have helped the Christmas tradition spread, Germany was credited with starting the Christmas tree design we all know today.
During the 12th century, an evergreen fir was decorated with apples and used as a prop for the Paradise Play, which depicted the creation, sin, banishment, and forgiveness by God. Many years later, on December 24, 1419, a group of German bakers was said to have displayed a Paradise Tree and adorned it with baked wafers, apples, gingerbread, and tinsel. This may have been the first display of what is now known as the Christmas tree.
Accordingly, the tradition caught on, and by 1605, embellished Paradise trees were common decorations throughout Germany and France. In later years, German settlers brought Christmas trees with them to America, although the practice was not accepted until the late 1830s.
Evergreen trees, whether real or artificial, have found their way into our homes at Christmas time. This amazing tradition, no matter the origins, makes Christmas a truly bright season.
When spring arrives, we are always excited to kick off the season with our annual tea party. On Saturday, March 16th our homeschool group hosted a vintage, butterfly-themed tea. This is such a great time for family and friends to gather. With 60-70 in attendance,... [More]
My family first met the “A Team” in the summer of 2020. They had already lived here for several months, but since the world was at the height of COVID lockdowns, we didn’t meet them until August. They began attending our monthly homeschool co-ops and instantly... [More]
Advent is a Latin word that means “coming” or “arrival”. Advent is a season of the Church calendar that stretches from four Sundays before Christmas Day through Christmas Eve. If you attend any Christian Church, you likely already know this. Advent... [More]
This time of the year, most Christians will be turning their Bibles to the story of Jesus’ birth. I doubt, however, they will start with the genealogy of Christ. So many “so-and-so begats.” Why do we even need to know that? There are... [More]
On a cold winter day, I woke up on Christmas morning and peeked out the window. What I saw was glistening snow falling to the ground. I soon heard the footsteps of my siblings creeping up the stairs to see what was under the tree. Stockings of red, white, and green were... [More]
Recently the Wallace County Home Educators hosted an event called Friendsgiving. This event allowed the Homeschoolers to show friends and family what they had accomplished and learned over the last semester including memorization of scripture, a display of mummified... [More]
You may not know it yet, but Vaccinium macrocarpon may be on your Thanksgiving table this year. No, it’s not a virus or bacteria – it’s the botanical name for the American cranberry. Since it is the time for Thanksgiving, I thought it would be neat to share... [More]
Happy 90th Birthday Frances Hickman We would like to invite the community to share in Frances’ 90th birthday celebration. Please join us at the Township Hall 2 - 4pm on Sat, July 27th for refreshments and visiting. We look forward to seeing you there. Frances'... [More]
The end of July is approaching, which can mean only one thing in Wallace County... Fair Time! The 2024 4-H Fair began on Saturday, July 20th with a 5pm Horse Show. On Monday, July 22nd official judging began for 4-H Arts & Crafts, 4-H Clothing, Fashion Revue, and... [More]
HAYS, Kan – June 27 represents a significant milestone for higher education in rural Kansas, as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) officially approved the Change of Control application filed jointly by Fort Hays State University, North Central Kansas Technical College,... [More]
(Read the full story with the font and typeface changes on page 5 of the Online Edition for July 23, 2024)
The Wallace County Pool is the perfect place to cool off this summer. Open Swim: Monday-Saturday 1:00-5:00 Sunday 2:00-6:00 Water Aerobics: Monday-Friday 12:00-1:00 and 5:00-6:00 Photo by Corey David Drone
Hope Springs celebrated it’s First Anniversary with an open house on June 30th. On the menu: delicious hot beef sandwiches, cheesy potatoes, and caesar salad! Cake and punch rounded out the meal. Musical entertainment was provided, encouraging residents and guests to join... [More]
COLBY -- The Colby Community College registrar's office released the names of students who earned a place on the President's and Vice President's honor rolls for the spring 2024 semester. The individuals completed at least 12 credit hours with no failing grades. The President's... [More]
WICHITA, Kan. Wichita State University has announced the names of 3,430 students who were on the WSU Dean's Honor Roll for spring 2024. To be included on the dean's honor roll, a student must be enrolled full time (at least 12 credit hours) and earn at least a 3.5 grade... [More]
It’s that time again in Wallace! It’s Rodeo Time! This year’s 70th Edition of the Fort Wallace Rodeo is shaping up to be a special one! There are again two performances; Saturday May 25 at 7 pm MDT and then on Sunday May 26 at 5 pm MDT. Admission... [More]
This past weekend, the Fort Wallace Museum had record-breaking attendance at the annual Symposium, and an equally successful Fundraiser Banquet. Around 90 people were in attendance at the day’s lectures and presentations, with attendees from all over Kansas, as well as... [More]
The Guardians of the Fort Wallace Museum will host their annual symposium and banquet on Saturday, March 16, at the museum, with symposium beginning at 8:30 am MDT and Capt. Keogh’s Emerald Banquet at 5 pm MDT. The theme of this year’s events is “The Moccasin... [More]
The Christmas Season approaches! Our annual Candlelight Christmas Service will be held on Sunday, December 3rd at 5:00 MT, starting at the 1888 Bethany Lutheran Church located on the west side of our Museum grounds. The traditional Swedish Lutheran service in the historic atmosphere... [More]
On Thursday evening, Nov. 2nd, come on over at 6 pm to hear a most talented musician, mandolinist and singer/songwriter John DePew! We will be hosting John inside the 1888 Bethany Lutheran Church. John Depew is a Kansas-based musician, songwriter, and traveler with a knack for... [More]
The fall travel season has featured strong attendance at the Fort Wallace Museum, with many retired couples and international travelers coming through. Our RV Park has also been busy, with many people staying to experience the local flavor of Wallace County. Our summer hours... [More]
This past Friday and Saturday, the Fort Wallace Museum grounds once again sprang to life -this time with the sights and sounds of a Native American village. 10 traditional tipis glowed in the sun, as well as military tents and a complete 1800s chuckwagon set-up. During Friday’s... [More]
On Friday, Sept. 8 and Saturday, Sept. 9, the Fort Wallace Museum grounds will come alive with the stories of the Native Tribes of the High Plains during the History Exposition and Outdoor Education Days. There will be demonstrations and talks on topics including home life, tools... [More]
©2024 The Western Times. Powered by Pluto Sites.