That Time St. Nick Went To Prison
The strange life and legends of the real Santa Claus
The modern image of Santa Claus is iconic and widely known. A Red suit, a sleigh pulled by reindeers, and a sack full of gifts instantly pop into your head. The magical character makes you forget the fact there really was a St. Nicholas. The real character and the legends attributed to him might be more interesting than the guy in the red suit.
Some legends have St. Nicholas finding dead dismembered children in a barrel and bringing them back to life. Another legend has St. Nick punching out a heretic at the Council of Nicaea in front of a Roman emperor. Still another has the saint saving young girls from prostitution by putting gold coins in their stockings.
The myths and mystery make it hard to tell what is true and what is false. But, a real Nicholas did exist. Join me on a little trip where we examine the original inspiration for the Jolly Old Elf.
If you think the idea of a big guy in a red suit flying around the world and eating cookies is strange, you…
