Lesley Worthington

Written by Lesley Worthington

Modified & Updated: 06 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

18-christmas-card-facts
Source: Thepioneerwoman.com

Christmas cards have become a beloved tradition during the holiday season. Sending and receiving these heartfelt greetings is a way to connect with family and friends, spread joy, and share well wishes. But have you ever wondered about the history and interesting facts behind these festive cards? In this article, we will delve into 18 intriguing facts about Christmas cards that will fascinate and surprise you. From the origins of the first commercial Christmas card to the most expensive ones ever sold, get ready to discover the fascinating world of Christmas card facts! So let’s dive in and explore the rich history and fun facts that make Christmas cards such a cherished part of the holiday season.

Key Takeaways:

  • The tradition of sending Christmas cards dates back to 1843 and has evolved from a luxury item to a global tradition, spreading joy and love across the world.
  • From religious motifs to personalized digital cards, Christmas cards have a rich history and continue to bring people together during the festive season.
Table of Contents

The first Christmas card was sent in 1843.

In the year 1843, Sir Henry Cole and John Horsley collaborated to create the first-ever Christmas card. It featured a festive scene with people enjoying a holiday celebration.

Christmas cards were initially expensive.

When Christmas cards were first introduced, they were considered a luxury item and were costly to produce. This made them accessible only to the wealthier classes.

The rise of the penny post made Christmas cards popular.

The introduction of the penny post in 1840 by Rowland Hill allowed people to send letters and cards at an affordable rate. This revolutionized the way Christmas cards were sent and popularized their use.

Christmas cards became mass-produced in the late 1800s.

With the advancement of printing technology, Christmas cards started to be mass-produced. This made them more affordable and readily available to the general public.

The largest Christmas card ever made was over 6,000 square feet.

In 2017, a shopping mall in Portugal created the largest Christmas card measuring over 6,000 square feet. It was a spectacular sight and highlighted the grandeur of the holiday season.

Hallmark introduced their first Christmas card in 1915.

The well-known greeting card company, Hallmark, first entered the Christmas card market in Since then, they have been a leading producer of Christmas cards worldwide.

Sending Christmas cards is a global tradition.

Christmas cards are not exclusive to any particular country. People all around the world participate in the tradition of sending Christmas cards to their loved ones.

The UK is the largest buyer of Christmas cards.

According to statistics, the United Kingdom is the largest buyer of Christmas cards, with millions of cards being sent each year.

Charity Christmas cards support good causes.

Many organizations sell charity Christmas cards, with the proceeds going towards supporting various causes and charitable organizations.

The most expensive Christmas card sold for $10,000.

In 2001, a rare Christmas card created in 1843 was sold at an auction for a staggering $10,The card was considered a valuable piece of historical memorabilia.

Christmas cards often feature religious motifs.

Many Christmas cards showcase religious motifs, such as nativity scenes, angels, and depictions of Jesus and the Virgin Mary.

Digital Christmas cards are gaining popularity.

With the rise of technology, digital Christmas cards have become a popular alternative to traditional paper cards. They allow for personalized messages and easy sharing across distances.

Handmade Christmas cards add a personal touch.

Handmade Christmas cards are cherished for the effort and creativity that goes into making them. It’s a way to show care and thoughtfulness towards the recipient.

Christmas postcards were popular in the early 1900s.

In the early 1900s, Christmas postcards gained popularity as they were easier to handle and required less postage compared to traditional folded cards.

Vintage Christmas cards are collectibles.

Old and rare Christmas cards from the early days of their creation have become collectibles, sought after by enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Dogs and cats are popular subjects on Christmas cards.

Animals, especially dogs and cats, are frequently featured on Christmas cards, adding a touch of cuteness and charm to the festive greetings.

Personalized photo Christmas cards are a modern trend.

With the advent of digital photography, personalized photo Christmas cards have become a trend, allowing families to showcase their loved ones in a festive setting.

Christmas cards spread joy and love.

More than just pieces of paper, Christmas cards symbolize the spirit of the holiday season – spreading joy, love, and warm wishes to those we hold dear.

So next time you send out a Christmas card, remember these interesting facts behind this beloved tradition. Let the 18 Christmas Card Facts inspire you to add a personal touch and convey your heartfelt wishes to your loved ones during this festive season.

Conclusion

Christmas cards have a rich history and are a treasured tradition during the holiday season. Whether you’re sending cards to loved ones near or far, these small gestures carry heartfelt sentiments and spread the joy and cheer of the festive season. From their humble beginnings to the vast array of designs and personalization options available today, Christmas cards continue to be a beloved way to connect and celebrate with others.

FAQs

1. When were Christmas cards first introduced?

Christmas cards were first introduced in the 1840s.

2. Who was the first person to create a Christmas card?

Sir Henry Cole sent the first commercially-produced Christmas card in 1843.

3. How popular are Christmas cards today?

Despite the rise of digital communication, Christmas cards remain popular with millions of cards exchanged each year.

4. What are some common themes and designs found on Christmas cards?

Common themes include snowflakes, Santa Claus, reindeer, religious imagery, and winter landscapes.

5. Can I personalize my Christmas cards?

Yes, many companies offer the option to add personal messages, names, and even photos to your Christmas cards.

6. Is it important to send Christmas cards?

Sending Christmas cards is a thoughtful way to stay connected with loved ones and show them that you’re thinking of them during the holiday season.

7. Are e-cards a suitable alternative to traditional Christmas cards?

While e-cards offer convenience, traditional Christmas cards have a personal touch that can’t be replicated.

8. Should I handwrite my Christmas cards?

Handwriting your Christmas cards adds a personal and heartfelt touch, but it’s also acceptable to use printed messages.

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