Joined: Feb 2007
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Boxing Day History
12/26/2007 at 12:22 AM
Boxing Day.
This name comes from a Middle Ages custom of eight hundred years ago when Churches would open their ‘Alms Box’, (Boxes placed in the Church Vestibule for the congregation to place money), and distribute to the poor of the community the day after Christmas. In the middle of the nineteenth century during the Reign of Queen Victoria it was observed as a holiday, (a day off work) in England for Postman, Errand Boys, Servants of various kinds, and Trades people who received a Christmas Box of contributions of money and gifts from whom they served.
The poor also went from door to door carrying empty boxes that were filled with food, Christmas Sweets, (Candy’s) and money. Parents of the poor gave their children small gifts such as oranges, handkerchiefs, and socks. Rich people placed their old clothing that they did not need anymore in boxes to be donated to the needy.
Today, Boxing Day is a holiday in the United Kingdom, Canada, and many other Commonwealth nations. It is spent with family and friends who visit to share their friendship and love while enjoying lots of food and fun. In England, the tradition continues today when small gifts of money are often given to delivery workers such as postal staff and children who deliver newspapers.
Government and businesses are closed, but the Malls and Box Stores open up for the sale of reduced price Christmas gifts cards and decorations. They also have ‘Specials’ on all items especially electrical equipment and furnature.
The original tradition of Boxing Day is followed throughout the Christmas season by many organizations whose members donate their time, energy, and money to fill the Food Bank, provide Christmas Dinners to the lonely and needy, provide gifts to children who live in poverty, or help individual families who are in great need at this time.
Source: Charles Dickens. C. Webber