HOLIDAY MAGIC: THE CHRISTMAS HAMPER’S HISTORY EXPLAINED
Others display their stockings above the fireplace.
One thing that makes traditions so remarkable is that they are frequently passed down from generation to generation – sometimes without our knowing why.
Have you ever wondered why your family behaves in certain ways over the holidays? For example, giving Christmas hampers to loved ones is a long-standing custom in British society.
This essay will discuss the origins of the Christmas hamper and how this kind present came to be.
Let’s get started with some hot cocoa!
WHEN AND WHERE DID THE TRADITION START ?
The Christmas hamper, like most traditions, was previously meant to represent something completely different. France introduced the notion of hampers to England, which gained prominence throughout the Victorian era.
The wicker basket loaded with delectable and savoury goodies dates back to 1066, when William the Conqueror controlled the United Kingdom.
The hampers were stocked with food, wine, and even clothing in 11th-century Britain. The baskets were distributed to needy or underprivileged families as benevolent offerings. In some circumstances, the supplies could last many weeks for a single household.
As time passed, the word “hamper” developed, as did its meaning. Some people utilised hampers, also known as “hanapers,” to store vital documents in the 1200s.
Several other historical occurrences influenced the naming and application of the hamper.
People began travelling by stagecoach around 1706. This meant that passengers would require food and drink during their flight. As a result, hampers became a popular option for many tourists who ate on the road.
The railroad system’s late-nineteenth-century growth altered how people and products travelled. For example, the railways made it easy for relatives and friends to send long-distance Christmas hampers as gifts.
Even more, changes occurred with the development of the vehicle. For example, tea kettles and burners were soon integrated into some baskets. This enabled travellers to pause for a soothing, hot beverage along the trip.
However, transportation was not the only feature that advanced. The contents of the Christmas hamper have also evolved, with some of the more abundant baskets featuring delicacies such as lobster.
Around this period, the Christmas hamper grew from a basic wicker basket carrying food and drink to a special present given to individuals you care about the most.
CHRISTMAS HAMPERS TO GIVE AND RECEIVE
Although Christmas hampers were frequently filled with the same items, such as wine, fruit, meats, and sweet delicacies, they were presented for various reasons.
FAMILY AND FRIENDS GIFT GUIDE
Christmas hampers were and still are considered a symbol of love and goodwill amongst friends and family. In addition, many holiday traditions revolve around excellent food, good drink, and good people, so a Christmas hamper is the ideal gift.
Because many of the products in a Christmas hamper are perishable (such as fruits, meats, and cheeses), quick delivery is essential. Often, family members would organise for delivery or hand-delivery on the day of the celebrations. Then, the items would be shared and enjoyed as part of the festivities.
