Department Store Santa Clauses: Still a Thing Since 1890

When did the idea of 'Department Store Santas' originate?

One of the first times was in 1890 when a Santa Claus was hired to appear in a Massachusetts department store for the kids. From then, it gradually grew until the department store Santa peaked in popularity by the 1950s.

Who were these original Clauses? Usually a store employee or a friend of an employee. The purpose was to keep kids entertained while mom and pop did some shopping...but as the fad grew, it became almost a necessity every year to have Santa ready and waiting for kids in various shops and stores.

Department Store Santas gave way to Mall Santas, but to this day he appears in every type of shop, store, and event.

Here's a quick look at some Department Store Santas from the past...