Christmas History

Christmas: A Brief History of the Holiday -
 Traces Christian observances back to their fourth century roots. Also explains how St. Nicholas became a part of the observance. From CNN.
http://www.cnn.com/EVENTS/1996/christmas/history.html

The Christmas Archives -
Historian Maria Hubert presents excerpts from her books and collected writings, photographs, and artwork.
http://www.christmasarchives.com/

Diorama Bethlehem -
 Display illustrates the Christmas story in a 3 dimensional reproduction of the environs of Bethlehem. Located in Einsiedeln, Switzerland.
http://www.diorama.ch/english/

The History Channel: Real History of Christmas -
A look at some Christmas traditions, how they started, and how they influence present day observances.
http://www.historychannel.com

The History of a Christmas Box -
 1906 essay that examines the child labor involved in preparing and delivering a gift.
http://www.boondocksnet.com/labor/cl_061229_xmas.html

The History of Christmas -
 Traces the celebration back to its origins. From the publishers of World Book Encyclopedia.
http://www2.worldbook.com/features/holidays/html/history.htm

The History of Christmas in Massachusetts -
Information on how the Puritains first resisted Christmas, and then were drawn into the holiday as immigrants moved into Massachusetts.
http://www.enjoyma.com/boston/christmas.asp

Victorian Christmas Stereoviews -
 Stereoscopic photos published from 1897 to 1903 showing Santa Claus, decorations, and children playing with their toys and having holiday parties.
http://www.boondocksnet.com/gallery/xmas/index.html