St Nicholas, in the late 13th century
Wherever you are, have a lovely and meaningful day, and spread even more cheer around than usual.
The Father Christmases of today would be abhorrent to his origins. The name Santa Claus is the informal Dutch for St Nicholas, Sint Nikolaas, who was renowned for giving gifts. Apparently he left coins in any shoes put out for that purpose, and once he paid dowries for three daughters of a worthy Christian man so they would not have to become ladies of the night.
Now THAT was spreading cheer! Happy Christmas, and usual service will, says the gal, be resumed tomorrow.
