Christmas lights adorn not only the decorated tree within the home but also trees outdoors, doorframes, rooflines, bushes and any other place to which the can be affixed. The tradition of using lights dates back to 17th century Germany where small candles were attached to tree branches with pins or melted wax. It is also said that as a symbol of light, hope and good in the world, the Christmas lights also served to remind good Christians to provide light to others as a reminder to follow the ways of Christ.
Beginning around 1890, candleholders were first used for Christmas candles and by 1914, small lanterns and glass balls to hold the candles were becoming commonplace. Early electric lights were introduced in the 1880s, establishing the illuminated Christmas tree in the United Kingdom that spread to North America and Australia soon after. Until the early 20th century, as electrical power became more affordable, miniature candles were used in decorating.
The first known electrically illuminated Christmas tree was the creation of Edward H. Johnson, as associate of Thomas Edison. He served as vice president of the Edison Electric Light Company and had Christmas tree light bulbs made especially for himself, in the colors of red, white and blue.
The tree was displayed at his home on Fifth Avenue in New York on Dec. 22, 1882, earning him the title “Father of Electric Christmas Tree Lights.” Businesses soon followed suit, stringing lights in their windows by 1900, although they.
