Christmas Pyramid

Group:
Photo of front side of Christmas Pyramid
Photo of front side of Christmas Pyramid

My object is a Christmas pyramid that my great-grandmother passed down to my grandpa, who then passed it down to my dad. The pyramid is made up of wood and has three layers. The origin of the pyramid is unknown as of today, as we can only trace it back to my great-grandmother. It is thought to be at least 70 years old. My father brought it to America when we moved here in 2012. We set up the pyramid every year during Christmas. The pyramid has a propeller on the top, and four spaces for candles on the bottom. When the candles are lit, the hot air rises and spins the propeller, in turn spinning the pyramid and showcasing all the figurines. My great-grandmother is thought to have first bought the pyramid after WW2 in Seiffen, Germany. Since she bought it, it has been used in my home every year to celebrate Christmas, traditions, and family. When we light the pyramid’s candles, it brings back fond memories of Christmas times in Germany with our family. This object is especially important to my family because we have not been back to Germany in a long time since moving here. We were planning on visiting when COVID-19 occurred, but were unable to. The pyramid brings our family together during Christmas time, and reminds us not only of where we came from, but also to always pursue what is best for us. 

Place(s): Germany, America
Year: 2012

– Kyle Seidel

Relationship:  Im/migrant who arrived as a child Im/migrant who arrived as a child