Yes, Virginia, there is a Christmas Pickle, no matter what your little friends may say.

Posted By Cliff Tuttle | December 24, 2017

No. 1,381

Image: Heinz History Center

Its supposed to be an old German tradition, although it has been said that no one from Germany admits knowing about it.

A pickle hung on the Christmas tree is supposed to bring good luck and an extra present to the child who finds it.  There are various stories about it.  In one, St. Nicholas rescued two boys from captivity in a pickle barrel.  In another, a Civil War prisoner in Andersonville was brought back from death’s door by eating a pickle and thereafter hung one on the tree.

But we in Pittsburgh have our own pickle tradition.  You may still be able to buy a pickle ornament for your tree at the Heinz History Center (or from its on-line store) for a modest $17.00.

CLT

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CLIFF TUTTLE has been a Pennsylvania lawyer for over 45 years and (inter alia) is a real estate litigator and legal writer. The posts in this blog are intended to provide general information about legal topics of interest to lawyers and consumers with a Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania focus. However, this information does not constitute legal advice and there is no lawyer-client relationship created when you read this blog. You are encouraged to leave comments but be aware that posted comments can be read by others. If you wish to contact me in privacy, please use the Contact Form located immediately below this message. I will reply promptly and in strict confidence.

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