Sofia Martinez
Christmas ornaments have come a long way since the mid-16th century when small German trees were decorated with candles, apples, nuts, and berries. The first glass ornaments were crafted in Lauscha, Germany, in 1847, but plastic ornaments didn't become popular until the 1950s and 1960s. During this time, plastic ornaments in the shapes of Santa Claus, snowmen, reindeer, and elves were widely available and inexpensive, often selling for less than 10 cents.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time period | 1950s and 1960s |
| Materials used | Plastic and other non-breakable materials |
| Manufacturers | Rosbro and Rosen of Providence, RI |
| Cost | Less than 10 cents |
| Availability | Woolworths and McCrory's |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic ornaments became popular in the 1950s and 1960s
Plastic Christmas ornaments became popular in the 1950s and 1960s. During this time, plastic ornaments and other non-breakable decorations flooded the market, sold at local 5 & 10 stores like Woolworth's and McCrory's. These small plastic decorations were very inexpensive, often selling for less than 10 cents. They came in various shapes, such as Santa, snowmen, reindeer, and elves, and were often used as stocking stuffers, party favours, or gifts from teachers to students. The most popular period for these ornaments was from 1952 to around 1958, with Rosbro and Rosen of Providence, RI, being the two major manufacturers.
The rise in popularity of plastic ornaments in the 1950s and 1960s marked a shift from traditional glass ornaments, which had been prevalent in previous decades. Glass ornaments, particularly those made in Lauscha, Germany, were widely exported and sold in the late 19th century by stores like Woolworth's. However, after World War II, the production of glass ornaments in Lauscha ceased, and the market opened up for new ornament materials.
Plastic ornaments offered several advantages over traditional glass ones. They were relatively inexpensive to produce, making them accessible to a wider range of people. Additionally, their non-breakable nature made them safer, especially for households with small children. This feature also made them ideal for various uses beyond tree decorations, such as stocking stuffers and party favours.
The popularity of plastic ornaments in the 1950s and 1960s reflected the cultural and economic climate of the time. Post-World War II, there was a demand for affordable and festive decorations that could bring cheer to people's homes. The bright colours and festive designs of plastic ornaments embodied the optimism and celebration of the holiday season during this era.
Today, Christmas ornaments are made from a variety of materials, including glass, plastic, porcelain, metal, and wood. While plastic ornaments continue to be widely available, many people also appreciate the traditional elegance of glass ornaments or the handcrafted charm of porcelain ones. Ultimately, the choice of ornament material depends on personal preference, with some opting for the unbreakable practicality of plastic and others favouring the timeless beauty of glass or the unique artistry of porcelain.
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They were cheap and easy to produce
Christmas ornaments made of plastic became popular in the 1950s and 1960s. They were inexpensive and easy to produce, which led to their widespread use. These ornaments were often sold for less than 10 cents and came in a variety of shapes and colours, including Santa Claus, snowmen, reindeer, and elves. They were commonly sold at local stores like Woolworths and McCrory's and were used as stocking stuffers, party favours, and gifts for students from teachers. The two major manufacturers of these plastic ornaments were Rosbro and Rosen of Providence, RI.
The availability of cheap and easy-to-produce plastic ornaments marked a shift from traditional glass ornaments, which were more fragile and expensive. Glass ornaments were often imported from Europe, particularly Germany, and were first introduced to the American market by F.W. Woolworth in the late 19th century. By the early 20th century, Woolworth's had over 1000 stores across America, selling glass ornaments and other Christmas decorations. However, the popularity of plastic ornaments in the 1950s and 1960s offered a more affordable and durable alternative for many households.
The production of plastic ornaments also reflected the post-World War II era, when new materials and manufacturing techniques were being explored. Plastic could be easily moulded into various shapes, making it a versatile material for ornament design. Additionally, the development of plastic ornaments contributed to the growing collection of Christmas decorations in many households. People began to collect ornaments all year round, adding to their existing collections or starting new ones.
While plastic ornaments were popular for their affordability and durability, they also faced some competition from other materials. For example, Dresden die-cut fiberboard ornaments became popular among families with small children due to their safety and affordability. Additionally, paper ornaments, garlands, and three-dimensional "Dresdens" were also low-cost alternatives that added colour and movement to Christmas trees. Despite the competition, plastic ornaments remained a staple in Christmas decoration, with their accessibility and variety of designs appealing to a wide range of consumers.
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Plastic ornaments were sold in Woolworths and McCrory's
Plastic Christmas ornaments first appeared in the 1940s, offering an affordable and durable alternative to traditional glass ornaments. They quickly became popular, especially with families who had young children, as they were safer and less likely to break. These ornaments were lightweight, easy to produce, and could be made in a wide variety of shapes and colours. They also allowed for more intricate and detailed designs, appealing to those who wanted something more modern and unique. The widespread availability and affordability of plastic ornaments can be largely attributed to their presence in popular department stores. Indeed, plastic ornaments were prominently sold in well-known retailers such as Woolworths and McCrorys.
Woolworths, a staple on many American Main Streets and a beloved five-and-dime store, offered a range of plastic Christmas ornaments to its customers. The store, with its wide reach and popularity, played a significant role in making plastic ornaments a common feature in American homes during the holiday season. McCrorys, another variety store chain, also stocked its shelves with plastic Christmas ornaments, providing further accessibility and choice for consumers. These stores, with their extensive networks of outlets across the country, contributed significantly to the popularity and accessibility of plastic ornaments.
Both Woolworths and McCrorys offered a range of plastic ornaments in various designs, colours, and themes. Customers could find everything from traditional red and green ornaments to more modern interpretations, allowing them to create their own unique holiday displays. The ornaments were typically hung on Christmas trees, but they could also be used to decorate mantels, tables, and other surfaces, adding a festive touch to any room. The stores likely sourced these ornaments from manufacturers who were quick to recognize the potential of plastic as a material for Christmas decorations.
The introduction of plastic ornaments marked a significant shift in the Christmas decoration industry. Plastic offered a more cost-effective option compared to traditional glass ornaments, which were often handcrafted and delicate. The mass production of plastic ornaments made it possible for more people to afford and enjoy decorative Christmas displays in their homes. This shift towards plastic ornaments also opened up opportunities for innovation in terms of design and colour, moving away from the more traditional and limited styles of the past.
So, the availability of plastic ornaments in Woolworths and McCrorys was a significant step in making plastic Christmas decorations a mainstream choice for families across the country. These stores played a pivotal role in shaping the holiday traditions and aesthetics of post-World War II America, offering affordable and attractive decorations that helped families celebrate the season with cheer and style. Today, while Woolworths and McCrorys may no longer be around, their impact on the evolution of Christmas ornaments and holiday traditions remains a lasting legacy.
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They were often used as stocking stuffers and party favours
Plastic Christmas ornaments first appeared in the 1950s and 1960s. During this period, they were relatively inexpensive and easy to produce. Small plastic decorations in the shapes of Santa Claus, snowmen, reindeer, and elves were commonly used as stocking stuffers and party favours. They were also given by teachers to their students during the Christmas season. These ornaments were often filled with cellophane-wrapped lollipops or other hard candies. The most popular period for these plastic ornaments was from 1952 to around 1958.
The two major manufacturers of these plastic decorations were Rosbro and Rosen of Providence, Rhode Island. They were sold in local 5 & 10 stores like Woolworths and McCrory’s. The ornaments were very affordable, often selling for less than 10 cents.
Prior to the widespread use of plastic ornaments, Christmas decorations were primarily made from glass. The modern-day mold-blown coloured glass Christmas ornament was invented in the small German town of Lauscha in the mid-16th century. Glass ornaments were also imported from Germany to the United States by F. W. Woolworth in the late 19th century. By 1910, Woolworth's had over 1000 stores across America, selling Christmas ornaments nationwide.
Today, Christmas ornaments are made from a variety of materials, including woven fabrics, blown glass, plastic, moulded porcelain or ceramic, carved wood, and expanded polystyrene. They are designed to be reused year after year, and many families pass down their collections through generations.
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Plastic ornaments are now available worldwide
Christmas ornaments have come a long way since their early beginnings in 16th-century Germany, where small evergreen trees were adorned with candles, apples, nuts, berries, and pastries. The original glass ornaments, known as baubles, were crafted by hand in the German town of Lauscha in the mid-19th century. Over time, the art of creating these decorations spread, with mass production and sales of glass ornaments taking off in the late 19th century.
However, the focus of our discussion today is on the evolution of plastic Christmas ornaments and their global availability. Plastic Christmas ornaments, which first appeared in the 1950s and 1960s, were a significant shift from the traditional glass and natural materials used previously. During this period, plastic ornaments were widely popular due to their affordability and ease of production. They were characterized by festive figures such as Santas, angels, bells, and a variety of novelty shapes in vibrant holiday colors. These ornaments were commonly sold in local variety stores like Woolworths and McCrory's, often for less than 10 cents each.
By the 1970s, plastic ornaments had become even more prevalent, with plastic snow globes containing plastic figures like reindeer, as well as beaded Santas and Mrs. Clauses, becoming popular additions to Christmas trees. Today, plastic ornaments have continued to evolve and are now available worldwide in an extensive range of shapes, colors, and designs. They are created to be durable and reused year after year, becoming a cherished part of family traditions.
The availability of plastic ornaments globally has made it possible for people around the world to decorate their Christmas trees with affordable, vibrant, and diverse options. While glass ornaments remain a classic and elegant choice, plastic ornaments have carved their own place in the market, offering a wide variety of styles and designs to suit different tastes and budgets.
In conclusion, plastic Christmas ornaments, which first emerged in the mid-20th century, have now become a global phenomenon. Their accessibility, durability, and endless design possibilities have contributed to their widespread adoption. As we approach the holiday season, it is fascinating to reflect on how these ornaments have become an integral part of Christmas celebrations in many households, adding a touch of cheer and sparkle to the festive season.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic Christmas ornaments became popular in the 1950s and 1960s.
Before plastic ornaments, people used decorations made from glass, porcelain, metal, wood, and expanded polystyrene.
The first Christmas ornaments were made of glass. They were hand-blown and crafted by Hans Greiner in Lauscha, Germany, in 1847.
Plastic ornaments rose in popularity after World War II, as they were inexpensive and easy to produce.
Early plastic ornaments often featured festive figures like Santa Claus, angels, bells, reindeer, and elves. They were sold for less than 10 cents and came with cellophane-wrapped lollipops or other candies.
