Beaded Santa ClausA short story on Santa Claus The origin of Santa Claus begins around the 4th century with Saint Nicholas, Bishop of Myra, an area in present day Turkey. St. Nicholas was a generous man, particularly devoted to children. After his death around 340 A.D. he was buried in Myra, but in 1087 his remains was stolen by Italian sailors and removed to Bari, Italy, greatly increasing his popularity throughout Europe. His kindness and reputation for generosity gave rise to claims of miracles and devotion to him increased. St. Nicholas was known by his red cape, flowing white beard.
The legend was kept alive until the Dutch colonists brought the tradition of gift giving and charity with them to America in the 17th century and here the Anglican name of Santa Claus emerged. The beaded Santa Claus is about an inch tall.
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