The Christmas Season is upon us! (Along with all the modern trappings and trimmings that we feel are a necessary part of the holiday.) But the celebration of this holiday on the early Texas frontier was much more simple.
In the mid-late 1800’s, the state was sparsely populated, so settlers would take advantage of holidays such as this to travel, gather and socialize (often staying a few days if not longer with their host.)
Trees were as scarce as people on the Texas prairie, so substitutes for a “traditional” Christmas tree might be created from tumbleweeds, mesquite, salt cedar, or juniper. Often times one “tree” might be placed in a common area in the community- such as the local church- instead of within each home. Decorations might include bits of ribbon, yarn, berries, popcorn, and paper designs.
Most gifts between friends and family were homemade and practical.
Just as now, holiday meals were one of the most important aspects of the celebration. In those days before refrigeration, dishes were prepared with whatever food stuffs were local and available. Game meats such as buffalo, deer, turkey, squirrel, rabbit (and, as one cowboy wrote in a letter home- even rattlesnake!) were prepared. Beef, chicken, and pork might also round out the meat portion of the menu. Sides included cornmeal dishes, preserved summer vegetables and fruits, as well as cakes and pies!
No holiday on the frontier was complete without music played late into the night. Traditional instruments such as fiddles and mouth organs might be used to accompany carols and dance.
As we celebrate this coming week, it’s both fun and meaningful to compare how the traditions of this holiday have changed and evolved, as well as the permanency of its essence and message.
Jewellee Kuenstler, THC&P Coordinator