In the history of the wreath, the word Wreath comes from the Old English word, Writhen, which means to writhe or twist.  The history of the wreath notes that ancient Romans and Greeks used wreaths of evergreens to adorn the head of Olympic athletes, kings and heroes.  Soon they began embellishing the wreaths and garlands with precious metals and jewels.  This became the first crown.  The word crown, or corona, itself means wreath or garland.  Today, in addition to the history of the wreath, wreaths are decorated with a huge array of sparkling wreath decorations and fancy wired ribbon.  Evergreen plants such as ivy, pine, mistletoe and holly, which even bare fruit in the winter months, have been used to make wreaths for decades because they have always been known to symbolize the hope of new life.  The circle shape of the wreath itself symbolizes eternity, and is used in the bible as a symbol of joy and honor.  The history of the wreath also notes that people began using the wreath as a door hanging somewhere in the 15^th century.  People would exchange holly sprigs as a token of good will for the upcoming New Year.

During the 19^th century, the history of the wreath includes that evergreen boughs were formed into wreaths and pillows to adorn the graves of dead loved ones during early winter months.  They were later brought home and used to decorate the home for the holidays.  Today many people decorate the outside of their homes with fresh pine wreaths and garlands.  Many are decorated with ornaments, decorations and ribbon.  Outdoor lights and outdoor decorations are also added.

Because of the shortage of evergreens in the countryside in the early 1900’s, artificial evergreen products were made to keep from endangering our nature. In the early 1900’s plastic was primarily used to make berries and greens, but by 1960, new materials hit the market such as silk and vinyl and allowed the products to have a much more life like look and feel.  This was a nice addition to be able to add fresh looking artificial wreaths and artificial Christmas trees to the homes interior without having to worry about drying out and fire hazard. 

Today many people decorate their wreaths, whether real or artificial, with fantastic decorations, ornaments, ribbon, and lights.   No matter how you decorate your wreath for the holiday, it still symbolizes faith and the continuous circle of the wreath still symbolizes the eternity and love our God placed before us on that first Christmas night with the gift of our Lord Jesus Christ.  May your holidays find you and your family blessed.