I am not much of a singer, but I did join in during a few tunes at our History Happy Hour program last Monday. Lisa Deyo, owner of Sweet Reads on Main Street, presented a program that featured favorite holiday tunes and the often little known facts about their origins. With the voice of Morgan Dickman of the Austin Symphony and Alice Tylutki on piano, the trio entertained and educated while guests sang along and laughed.

Lisa explained how the lyrics of some holiday standards were changed over time. For instance when “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” was first proposed by songwriters Hugh Martin and Ralph Blain, a few lines were deemed too depressing.

“Have yourself a merry little Christmas

It may be your last

Next year we may all be living in the past”

Upon the suggestion of actress Judy Garland, who was staring in “Meet Me in St. Louis,” Martin changed the semi-sad song lyrics above to “Let your heart be light / Next year all our troubles will be out of sight.”

Then, in 1957, Frank Sinatra asked Martin to revise the line “Until then we’ll have to muddle through somehow,” which became “Hang a shining star upon the highest bough.” Martin made several other alterations, changing the song’s focus to a celebration of present happiness, rather than anticipation of a better future.

Jay Livingston and Ray Evans composed “Silver Bells” which was released in 1951. You may know the words to the song, but did you know that the original title proposed was “Tinkle Bells?” Livingston’s wife suggested that, because of the slang use of the word tinkle, maybe they should consider a different title. I am glad they listened to her.

My favorite part of the evening was hearing Morgan sing “Silent Night” in German. One of the guests joined her, and it made me imagine George Hormel’s family gathered together at the holidays. Hearing the song always invokes a feeling of peace and reverence for me. Historian Stanley Weintraub wrote about a time the song brought peace to soldiers. In “Silent Night: The Remarkable Christmas Truce of 1914,” he described both English and German troops singing together as the soldiers on both sides of the front line knew the lyrics.

It was a fun holiday evening of song, stories, and joy. January’s History Happy Hour will feature “The Archeology of Bones,” presented by Elena Haymond. You’ll have to join us on Monday, Jan. 9, to find out what that is all about.

Hearth & Home: Holiday Memories  and Traditions

10 a.m., Dec. 20

Presented by a variety of community members who will share stories and treats from their past. Stories from the German, Pennsylvania Dutch, Hispanic and Minnesota cultures will entertain and bring memories to life. Free