Yes, Virginia facts for kids

"Yes, Virginia" is a famous phrase that comes from a newspaper editorial written a long time ago. It is most known for a special message about Santa Claus. This phrase also refers to a music album and a Christmas television show.

The Famous "Yes, Virginia" Letter

The most famous use of "Yes, Virginia" comes from a newspaper editorial published in 1897. It appeared in The New York Sun, a newspaper in New York City. The editorial was titled Is There a Santa Claus? and it quickly became very popular.

Who Was Virginia O'Hanlon?

The editorial was written in response to a letter from an eight-year-old girl named Virginia O'Hanlon. She lived in New York City and was a regular kid who believed in Santa Claus.

Why Was the Letter Written?

Virginia wrote to the newspaper because her friends had told her that Santa Claus was not real. She was feeling confused and sad. Her father suggested she write to The New York Sun, saying, "If you see it in The Sun, it's so." So, Virginia wrote her letter asking if Santa Claus truly existed.

Who Wrote the Famous Reply?

The newspaper editor, Edward P. Mitchell, gave Virginia's letter to a writer named Francis Pharcellus Church. Church was a veteran journalist and a former Civil War correspondent. He wrote the famous reply that included the line, "Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus."

The Message of the Editorial

Church's editorial explained that Santa Claus is more than just a person. It said that Santa represents important ideas like love, kindness, and generosity. It talked about how these things are real, even if you can't see them with your eyes. The editorial taught that the most important things in the world are often those that we feel in our hearts, like faith and imagination. It reminded readers that believing in Santa helps us believe in the good things in life.

"Yes, Virginia" in Pop Culture

The famous phrase and the story behind it have inspired many other works. It shows how much the original message resonated with people over the years.

The TV Christmas Special

In 2009, a special animated Christmas television program called Yes, Virginia first aired. This show tells the story of Virginia O'Hanlon and her letter to the newspaper. It helps new generations understand the meaning of the original editorial. The TV special reminds everyone about the spirit of Christmas and the power of belief.

The Dresden Dolls Album

"Yes, Virginia..." is also the title of a music album released in 2006. It was created by an American band called The Dresden Dolls. While the album's themes are different from the Christmas story, its title is a nod to the famous phrase.