Angel chimes facts for kids
Angel chimes are special Christmas decorations. They are also sometimes called angel-abras. You can find them in many homes in Europe and North America during the holidays. They work in a similar way to Christmas pyramids. However, angel chimes are usually made from metal and have angels that ring bells. Christmas pyramids are often made from wood and don't always have bells.
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How Angel Chimes Work
Angel chimes have small holders at the bottom for candles. When the candles are lit, their heat rises. This heat makes a small spinning part, called a turbine, turn at the top.
As the turbine spins, it makes little angel figures "fly" in a circle. These angels often hold trumpets. As they spin, they gently tap tiny bells below them, making a soft, chiming sound. Many angel chimes also have other decorations, like a Star of Bethlehem or a creche.
The History of Angel Chimes
The tradition of angel chimes in the United States began about 100 years ago. Immigrant families brought these beautiful decorations from Germany. One of the first patents for an angel chime was given to Walter Stock. He worked for a German toy company called Adrian & Stock. Before World War II, German-made chimes were often made of tin. They had colorful pictures printed on them using a method called lithography.
In 2007, a very old metal angel chime from the 1920s was sold online. It was a rare Christmas tree topper. Its box said "electric chimes," which was unusual for the time.
Angel Chimes in Sweden
In Sweden, Christmas angel chimes are very popular. They are known as "änglaspel." After World War II, angel chimes made in Sweden became well-liked. They were popular in both Europe and North America. These Swedish chimes had a simpler, more modern look, often made of shiny brass.
Angel Chimes in Denmark
People in Denmark call these decorations "Englespil."
Angel Chimes Around Asia
More recently, angel chimes made in China have become very common. They are now a big part of the export market. Modern designs sometimes even include spinning candles.
Angel Chimes in the United States
Angel Chimes USA (ACUSA) helps distribute "The Original Angel Chimes." These chimes are made by Aras Metals in Turkey. ACUSA and Aras Metals bought the original designs from the family who first created them in Sweden in 1948.
Angel Chimes in Popular Culture
Angel chimes have inspired many songs. Some songs include "Angel's song" and "The Christmas Chimes." You can find the sheet music for these songs at the United States Library of Congress. The song "Ringle-rey, Shoo-hey" by Birgit Ridderstedt also mentions angel chimes.
The writer Nina Raine also uses angel chimes in her play called Rabbit.
