Legends of Saint Nick

There have many stories and legends told of Saint Nick over the centuries. One is about a man that had three daughters. The man was very poor and could not afford dowries for his daughters. Without a dowry, a woman was unlikely to marry and was destined for slavery. Saint Nick heard of this unfortunate situation and he tossed a bag of gold on three different occasions in the window of the man’s house to provide the dowries.

Another legend is that a miraculous event took place when a ship was caught in shallow water during a storm. Knowing how strong Nicholas’ faith was, the sailors called out to him even though he was far away. Nicholas appeared and helped the sailors, and he urged the sailors to always help others in need and devote their lives to God.

Saint Nick is considered a patron saint of sailors, children, and unmarried girls because of the miraculous and kind acts he performed during his life. Saint Nick was known to all as a friend and protector. His faith in God inspired everyone he met and showed the world that all gifts can be given as godly deeds.

The anniversary of Saint Nick’ death became a day of celebration called Saint Nick Day. Saint Nick Day, which is December 6, falls during the Advent season. Saint Nick’ tradition of giving out gifts and sharing kindness to children at least once a year is continued today with our western tradition of Santa Clause.

The American version of Santa Clause derived from a Dutch legend of “Sinter Klaas” that was brought to New York by settlers during the 17th century. In 1773, the first name of “St. A Claus” appeared in the media in America. Washington Irving published the “History of New York” in 1809, giving a description of a saint on horseback every “Eve of Saint Nicklaus.” Then in 1822, the poem “A Visit from Saint Nicklaus” was written by Clement Clarke Moore and published in 1823, giving the detailed description of the “Old Saint Nick” from Dutch origins that Americans are accustomed to today.

Saint Nicklaus has come a long way down through the centuries. From a man who loved to give to those in need to a jolly fellow in a red and white suit who enters homes through the chimney to bring toys each Christmas, Santa Claus lives on in the hearts of Christmas lovers everywhere.