Saint Nicholas and the Origin of Santa Claus

How did the kindly Christian saint, good Bishop Nicholas, become a roly-poly red-suited American symbol for merry holiday festivity and commercial activity? History tells the tale.

Through the centuries many stories and legends have been told of St. Nicholas' life and deeds. These accounts help us understand his extraordinary character and why he is so beloved and revered as protector and helper of those in need.

All Christians reverence his memory and call upon his protection." The West became even more interested when his "relics" were taken from Myra to Bari, Italy, on May 9, 1087.

Then up from his seat, Nick sprang with a start,
And he said to Arius, “You’re not so smart.”
His eyes how they twinkled with fires of passion.
He strode through the room in a most fearsome fashion.
He moved like an arrow shot out of a bow,
And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.