What Gleams are Made of
1959 was a remarkable year of innovation and new beginnings. Alaska and Hawaii were admitted as states, the Streng Bros. began building homes in Sacramento, and the Aluminum Speciality Company (AS) in Manitowoc, Wisconsin launched the Evergleam aluminum Christmas tree.
Space age innovation was at an all time high, which translated to homes, appliances, automobiles, and even holiday decorating. Buyers were seeking something different from the traditional green or flocked tree, and aluminum proved to be the answer. The idea and patent for an aluminum tree began with Modern Coatings, Inc. of Chicago in 1955. However, the bulky, awkward construction and high price tag kept it from being a feasible option for the average consumer. AS had a different approach. By deconstructing the Modern Coatings version, they redesigned a new tree, offering an affordable, lightweight, easy-to-assemble solution for the masses.
Distinct, sculptural, shiny metal branches created a bold holiday statement that easily caught attention. The straightforward construction and lightweight pieces made set-up a breeze, and best of all, these trees did not shed their needles. The Evergleam brand also introduced paper cylinder sleeves to keep branches looking fluffy and fresh year after year. When it’s time to put the tree away, everything, including the pole and stand, fits snugly into a compact box.
Aluminum Specialty also offered a line of tree accessories under the Evergleam name, including their revolving color wheel and tree stand. The tree stand base featured a sturdy steel design, lightweight plastic cover with signature gold/white starburst pattern, and an optional integrated Swiss music box. Pushing the small metal tab inward activates a delicate version of Silent Night while the tree goes round and round. Go ahead and give it a listen!
Vintage color wheel lamp by Penetray.
Throughout the 1960s, many brands, such as Silver Forest, Star Band, and Penetray followed the lead of AS, but Evergleam remains the most recognized brand in vintage aluminum trees and accessories. Popularity of the aluminum tree tapered off by the early ‘70s, but make no mistake, aluminum trees are back, and in demand among mid-century enthusiasts. In 2019, Evergleam celebrates 60 years of its widely popular aluminum tree, and they’ve pulled out all the stops with a deluxe hard cover book, The Evergleam Book 60th Anniversary.
I’ve had my 6-foot aluminum pom pom tree for several years, and it is always a joy to set-up. After all this time, the paper sleeves are still intact, though I can’t say the same for its original box. The tree sits proudly at the corner sliders in the front living area, shining brightly for passers by. Its glimmering branches command attention whether you’re inside or outside. What I love most about this tree is its simplicity. It can be set up in about 5 minutes, dressed up with just a few colorful glass baubles, or stand on its own without ornaments for a more refined statement. I kept the decor simple this year with a collection of monochrome, aqua, vintage ornaments. While the color wheel turns, and fire roars, the aluminum shimmers with holiday splendor.
As you decorate your home for the holidays, I wish you all the shine and sparkle this season brings.
