The Evolution of Artificial Christmas Trees
Artificial Christmas trees have come a long way since their inception. Originally made from goose feathers in the 19th century, they were a German invention used by families who couldn’t afford a real tree. These feather trees were popular until the 1920s, when technology allowed for the invention of other tree materials such as aluminum.
Then in the 1950s, the Addis Brush Company created the first artificial Christmas tree made of plastic. This revolutionary creation was initially made with bristles salvaged from postwar brush-making machinery. However, it quickly became popular, and now the plastic trees come in a range of sizes and colors.
The Connection Between Artificial Trees and Museums
Artificial Christmas trees are not only a holiday staple but also a connection to museums. In fact, many museums showcase vintage artificial trees and artifacts related to their creation. One excellent example is the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, where visitors can observe a display of vintage aluminum trees.
Moreover, artificial Christmas trees have ties to Egyptology, as some museums display mummies adorned with artificial trees. These artifacts were used to preserve the mummies’ connection to the realm of the living.
Vintage artificial Christmas trees have also been featured in the National Christmas Tree Association’s Christmas ornament collections. Thus, by studying the history of artificial trees, one can get a glimpse of different periods of American cultural etiquette and understand how these trees have evolved throughout history.
In conclusion, the history of artificial Christmas trees is unique and connected to museums as well as the ancient practice of preserving mummies. Knowing about the development of artificial trees also gives us an understanding of the cultural and technological changes that have taken place throughout history. So, this holiday season, take a moment to contemplate the fascinating history behind these festive trees.
