Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: Christmas Lights
Dec 20, 2023
Discover the history of Christmas lights, sparked by an Edison associate's idea to decorate a tree with electric bulbs. From dangerous candles to dazzling electric displays, explore how festive lighting evolved into a competitive tradition by the 1890s. Learn about the transition from costly decor to affordable LED options and the significance of sustainability. With charming anecdotes and cultural insights, this deep dive will brighten your holiday spirit!
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First Electric Christmas Tree
- Edward H. Johnson, an Edison associate, first decorated a Christmas tree with electric lights in 1882.
- The tree, displayed in his parlor, featured 80 red, white, and blue lights and revolved, changing colors.
A Safer Alternative
- Before electric lights, people used real candles on Christmas trees, posing a significant fire hazard.
- Johnson's electric lights, though initially expensive, offered a much safer alternative.
Newspaper Report
- A reporter from the Detroit Post Tribune described Johnson's tree as "brilliantly lighted" with 80 colorful lights.
- The reporter marveled at the beauty of the display, calling it "hardly imaginable anything prettier."
