Undoubtedly, you have heard or read Clement Moore’s famous poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” (1822), but have you ever wondered where the traditions of stockings, presents, and cookies come from? And what about jolly old Saint Nick? Who was he and why do we call him Santa Claus?
In this episode of the “Ben Franklin’s World” podcast, Peter G. Rose, culinary historian of Dutch foodways in North America and author of Delicious December: How the Dutch Brought Us Santa, Presents, and Treats (SUNY Press, 2014), joins me to discuss the origins of Santa Claus, cookies, and more in the United States.
You can listen to the podcast here: www.benfranklinsworld.com/009
“Ben Franklin’s World” is a podcast for people who love history and for those who want to know more about the historical people and events that have impacted and shaped our world. Each episode features an interview with an historian who shares their unique insights into our early American past.
Loved the interview with Peter Rose. So much history is finally being revealed by the study of the Dutch period in NYS.
Hi Lewis. Thank you for listening. It was a privilege to interview Peter, especially since I have long admired her work on Dutch-American foodways.