Introduction
Aluminum Christmas trees, though no longer in production, are a fascinating part of holiday history. These shimmering, metallic trees were once a popular symbol of the Christmas season during the 1960s. Introducing this unconventional holiday decoration to modern students can lead to interesting discussions about consumerism, cultural traditions, and the evolution of holiday celebrations.
History of the Aluminum Christmas Tree
The aluminum Christmas tree emerged during the post-World War II era. Produced mainly in the United States, these aluminum trees became a popular holiday item between 1958 and 1965. They were manufactured by various companies such as the Aluminum Specialty Company, which released their “Evergleam” line in 1959. These silvery trees had a space-age feel that reflected America’s fascination with futuristic designs during the mid-20th century.
The Decline and Resurgence
By the late 1960s, public sentiment began to shift. People sought a return to traditional values and customs, which included embracing natural holiday decorations like fresh-cut evergreens. Consequently, the popularity of the aluminum Christmas tree waned.
However, nostalgia and pop culture references have contributed to a resurgence of interest in these nostalgic metallic trees. With shows like “Mad Men” and websites dedicated to preserving information about them, aluminum Christmas trees have found a new fan base among those who appreciate retro styles or want to relive their childhood memories.
Teaching Strategies
1. Historical Context: Start by providing students with an overview of the cultural and historical context that gave rise to aluminum Christmas trees. Discuss how trends and influences from different eras impact home décor and celebration customs.
2. Comparison with Traditional Trees: Encourage students to compare the characteristics of aluminum Christmas trees to those of traditional live or artificial green trees. Discuss advantages and disadvantages—from cost and durability to environmental factors—that might have influenced consumers’ preferences.
3. Show and Tell: If possible, bring an aluminum Christmas tree to class or display photos for a hands-on exploration. Invite students to examine the tree and ask questions about its appearance, construction, and appeal.
4. Pop Culture Connections: Share film or TV clips from programs like “Mad Men” or movies like “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” which feature aluminum Christmas trees. Discuss their role as symbols of modernity or nostalgia within the media.
5. Creative Project: Challenge students to create their own artistic interpretation of an aluminum Christmas tree using recycled materials, such as aluminum foil, soda cans, or other metallic items. This will help them appreciate the distinct aesthetic of these trees while sparking their creativity.
Conclusion
Teaching students about aluminum Christmas trees not only offers a glimpse into a unique aspect of holiday history but also provides opportunities for engaging discussions about consumer culture, tradition, and change over time. The diverse array of learning strategies outlined above will engage students in critical thinking while they explore this quirky piece of Christmas past.
