As Christmas approached in late 1882, Edward Hibberd Johnson was ready to embrace the festive spirit in New York City. Once again, he took part in the beloved tradition of decorating his parlor with a stunning evergreen. This year, however, Johnson decided to modernize the celebration by introducing electric lights to his holiday decor, marking a significant departure from the traditional wax candles that had illuminated Christmas trees for centuries.
Having worked closely with Thomas Edison, who had recently showcased the first practical light bulb, Johnson was well-versed in the emerging technology of electricity. His role as vice president of the Edison Electric Light Company and his previous efforts to advance electrical technology positioned him uniquely to revolutionize Christmas lighting.
Before Johnson’s innovation, candles were the primary source of illumination for Christmas trees. Unfortunately, these candles posed a considerable fire risk, with many households suffering devastating losses due to fires. By swapping out candles for electrical lights, Johnson not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of his Christmas tree but also significantly mitigated the danger of fire. His tree was adorned with 80 vibrant, hand-wired bulbs that dazzled in colors of red, white, and blue, set in motion by a spinning mechanism that gave the lights a magical twinkle.
Johnson’s electrified tree captured the attention of many, inspiring affluent New Yorkers to follow suit by showcasing their own festive light displays at holiday gatherings. However, the intricate setup of these early electrical lights required considerable effort, with high-society families often spending up to $300 to hire electricians for installation and maintenance.
The wider adoption of electric lights would take time. The first electrified Christmas tree at the White House in 1894 marked a milestone, though many Americans still relied on candles due to limited electric access. The situation began to shift around the turn of the 20th century when General Electric started producing user-friendly electric lights, which were promoted as a safer alternative to candles.
The transition to electric lights gained momentum, especially in the 1940s when rural America became more electrified. Gradually, electric lights became standard for decorating Christmas trees, effectively eliminating the fire risks associated with candles. The annual challenge of untangling light strands has since become part of the holiday tradition.
Today, Edward Hibberd Johnson is honored as the “Father of Electric Christmas Tree Lights,” a title reflecting his crucial role in creating a safer, more beautiful holiday experience. His innovation not only transformed personal celebrations but also laid the groundwork for the elaborate and dazzling light displays that characterize the Christmas season today.
In summary, Johnson’s groundbreaking idea to use electric lights for Christmas trees not only marked a significant technological advancement but also set the stage for future generations to enjoy brighter, safer, and more festive holidays. It is a reminder of how innovation can enhance cherished traditions and create lasting joy in our celebrations.