The History Of Christmas Cards: When Did Christmas Cards Start?

Christmas cards have become a beloved tradition during the holiday season, with millions of people sending and receiving them each year. But have you ever wondered when this tradition began? Let’s take a trip through history to explore the origins of Christmas cards and how they came to be the popular tradition they are today.

The tradition of sending Christmas cards can be traced back to the early 19th century in England. The custom of sending greetings during the holiday season had been around for centuries, with handwritten letters and well-wishes being exchanged among friends and family. However, it was not until the 1840s that the first commercial Christmas cards were produced.

The credit for creating the first Christmas card is usually given to Sir Henry Cole, a British civil servant and inventor. In 1843, Sir Henry found himself too busy to write individual Christmas greetings to all his friends and family. To save time, he collaborated with a friend, John Callcott Horsley, a well-known illustrator, to create a design that could be reproduced and sent to multiple recipients.

The resulting Christmas card featured a festive scene of a family gathered around a table enjoying a holiday meal. The center of the card had a large blank space for the sender to write a personal message. The card also included the inscription, “A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You.”

The first commercial Christmas cards were produced in a limited run of one thousand copies and were sold for a shilling each. The cards were a hit, and they quickly gained popularity among the public. Over the years, the tradition of sending Christmas cards spread throughout England and eventually made its way to the United States.

Early Christmas cards were quite elaborate and often featured detailed illustrations, intricate designs, and sentimental verses. They were usually handcrafted, with each card being a unique work of art. As printing technology advanced, mass-produced cards became more affordable and accessible to the general public.

By the late 19th century, sending Christmas cards had become a popular tradition in both England and the United States. The Victorians, in particular, embraced the practice with enthusiasm, and the exchanging of cards became a significant part of the holiday season.

The popularity of Christmas cards continued to grow throughout the 20th century, with new designs, styles, and themes emerging every year. From traditional religious scenes to whimsical Santa Claus illustrations, there was a Christmas card to suit every taste and preference.

Today, Christmas cards are an essential part of the holiday season for many people. They offer a way to connect with loved ones near and far, spread holiday cheer, and express sentiments of love and goodwill. Despite the rise of digital communication, the tradition of sending physical Christmas cards remains strong, with millions of cards being exchanged each year.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in vintage and retro Christmas cards, with many people seeking out traditional designs and styles reminiscent of the early days of the tradition. Handmade and personalized cards have also become popular, as people look for ways to add a personal touch to their holiday greetings.

So, when did christmas cards start? The tradition of sending Christmas cards dates back to the early 19th century in England, with the first commercial cards being produced in the 1840s. Since then, Christmas cards have evolved into a beloved tradition that brings joy and festive spirit to the holiday season. Whether you prefer traditional designs or modern styles, sending Christmas cards is a wonderful way to spread holiday cheer and connect with loved ones during this special time of year.