Christmas

Washington Irving (1783 – 1859) was an American author, essayist, biographer, historian, and diplomat of the early 19th century. He achieved international fame for the fictional stories “Rip Van Winkle” and “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” as well as for such biographical works as “A History of the Life and Voyages of Christopher Columbus”. Also his historical works include biographies of George Washington, Oliver Goldsmith and Muhammad, and several histories of 15th-century Spain dealing with subjects such as the Moors and the Alhambra.

“Christmas” is a short story from “Old Christmas” collection written by a famous American author Washington Irving in 1820. It is a collection of observances about Christmas in England many years ago. One of Irving's most lasting contributions to American culture is in the way Americans perceive and celebrate Christmas. In “Old Christmas” he portrayed an idealized celebration of old-fashioned Christmas customs at a quaint English manor, that depicted harmonious warm-hearted English Christmas festivities he experienced in his younger days. It is a good opportunity to acquaint yourself with the true Christmas traditions. This story is highly recommended for Christmas Eve or Day reading!