Jingle Bells is not a Christmas song
During a recent visit to a local store, I found myself discussing holiday music with a clerk. This young African American man expressed his frustration over the incessant rotation of Christmas songs during his shift. He then shifted the conversation toward the pagan roots of the December 25 holiday and made a bold assertion: “Did you know that Jingle Bells was originally written about African slaves in America?” His comment caught my attention and prompted me to dig deeper into the origins of this seemingly jolly tune.
The truth is, Jingle Bells was not written as a Christmas song, nor was it inspired by the experiences of slavery. However, its connections to African American culture and experiences are notable and deserve recognition.
The Lyrics: A Joyful Celebration
Consider the lyrics of the song, which describe a carefree sleigh ride through the snowy countryside. Lines such as:
“Dashing through the snow,
In a one-horse open sleigh,
Over the fields we go,
Laughing all the way.”
These cheerful verses reflect the joy of winter activities and the simple pleasures of life, rather than conveying any darker themes or references. The jubilant nature of the song tells a story of fun, laughter, and a lighthearted spirit, distinctly separate from the seriousness of historical struggles.
Debunking Myths about Slave Collars
One common claim surrounding Jingle Bells is its alleged connection to the iron collars used on enslaved Africans. These collars were often fitted with bells so that escaping slaves could be tracked by dogs. While this dark history is undeniable, it is crucial to clarify that no evidence supports the idea that the song was intended to reference this practice.
The portrait painted by this myth suggests a horrifying narrative that lacks factual grounding. The enjoyment expressed in the lyrics stands in stark contrast to the brutal realities faced by enslaved individuals. In many ways, this misconstruction only serves to dilute the gravity of the historical abuses endured by African Americans.
Historical Context: The Origins of Jingle Bells
“Jingle Bells” made its debut in 1850 in Medford, Massachusetts. Written by James Lord Pierpont, it was initially published under the title “One Horse Open Sleigh.” This catchy melody captured the spirit of winter festivities, and it was not meant for holiday celebrations. The song’s initial intention was to celebrate the excitement of sleigh riding—a popular winter activity in the mid-19th century.
It wasn’t until 1857 that it adopted the well-known name we recognize today. The premise and joy encapsulated within its lyrics were far removed from anything related to Christmas or slavery.
A Minstrel Legacy
Interestingly, “Jingle Bells” found its way into minstrel shows—a theatrical form popular in the 19th century that showcased white performers in blackface. The song was used as a tool for satire, reflecting on the merriments of sleigh riding as enjoyed by affluent, white society, while paradoxically highlighting the absence of such joys from the lives of many African Americans. This illustrates the complexity of musical representation and societal norms of that era.
Though often misinterpreted, the original intent of “Jingle Bells” resonates as a celebration of winter fun rather than a somber commentary on slavery. It reminds us of the layers of narrative surrounding our holiday traditions and the songs we so often take for granted.
“A day or two ago,
I thought I’d take a ride,
And soon Miss Fanny Bright
Was seated by my side;
The horse was lean and lank,
Misfortune seemed his lot,
We got into a drifted bank,
And there we got upsot”
These verses also carry a sense of lightheartedness, painting a picture of joy and misadventures, rather than dark undertones associated with enslavement.