The origins of the Samichlaus tradition are in the fourth century AD. Nicholas, Bishop of Myra, was the patron saint of children in what was then Turkey.
Nicholas of Myra
Legend has it that Nicholas was born into a wealthy family. Upon the early death of his parents, the saint distributed all his inheritance to the poor people of his hometown Patara, and then left. A few years later he was appointed Bishop of Myra. For this reason, he often appears with a bishop’s robes and a bishop’s hat.
Every year, on his birthday, Bishop Nicholas would put on his precious bishop’s costume, take the shepherd’s staff and load a heavy sack on his donkey. This apple, tangerine, hazelnut, and honey cake was filled to bursting. He was so loaded that he roamed the streets, handing out his presents, and turning the day into a feast.
Numerous miracles and good work legends have swirled around his life. He healed the sick, rescued distressed ships, and even brought the dead back to life.
Finally, on December 6, in the middle of the fourth century, the saint died of old age.
Two Santas, one Samichlaus
However, the tradition of Samichlaus as we know it today does not come entirely from the life story of St. Nicholas of Myra. In fact, there was another benevolent Santa Claus throughout history. He was the first abbot of Sion (a place near Patara, not Sion in Switzerland) and later bishop of Myra. He asked the students about their good and bad deeds. At the end of the visit, each student was given a small gift. Over time, these two figures mixed together and the famous Samichlaus tradition emerged.
And who is the scumbag?
Dirt and hell? Absolutely, because that’s where it comes from. His face is soiled with soot and his wand, he wanders the country living rooms with Santa Claus and raises children. Of course under surveillance. Saint Nicholas put him in chains.
In the past, Schmutzli did not have such a beautiful name: at that time he was called Düvel, Beelzebub or Leutfresser. Children who were not in good condition or did not perform their prayers were put in a sack. But the good ones got gifts from Santa Claus.
Today, of course, Schmutzli is no longer on the road as a hell-spawn, but as Santa’s good-natured sidekick.