There is no way to determine exactly where or when the “baby shower” originated. There are several theories about the history of baby showers, but none can be proven. No matter where and when baby showers were first introduced, today they are a very special event that celebrates new life.
Some historians have found evidence of baby showers, or something similar, quite some time ago. These discoveries lead experts to believe that the celebration of birth began in ancient cultures, such as those of the Egyptian and Roman times. No definitive proof is available, but historians have deciphered data that could mean baby showers took place.
When you look at baby showers from long ago, you see that most of the gifts given to the family were handmade. Clothes, blankets and even food were provided as gifts for the new family. Showers in the past occurred after the birth of the child, so many times part of the “baby shower” was the viewing of the new child.
The “baby shower” as we celebrate it today began after World War II. Family and friends gather, in a festive atmosphere, to celebrate the birth of a new baby. At first, only women were invited to attend such a gathering, but today these celebrations can include the father, grandparents, and any male family members.
In recent years, the baby shower has begun to occur before the actual birth of the child. With the new technology that is available to expectant parents, the gender of the child is less of a mystery. Therefore, an early baby shower can be organized in preparation for the baby’s arrival without the worry of buying the wrong thing.
No matter what the history of the baby shower, today’s baby shower is an event of support and generosity towards new or expecting parents. With all the current trends towards “unisex” items, it’s hard to buy the wrong thing!
