The first Santa on film: 1898

The first known depiction of Santa Claus on film dates from 1898 - and you can view the one-minute short on YouTube. Made by George Albert Smith, it is highly technically advanced for the time it was made. The original description by publisher Lubin Films reads:

"In this picture you see Santa Claus enter the room from the fireplace and proceed to trim the tree. He then fills the stockings that were previously hung on the mantle by the children. After walking backward and surveying his work, he suddenly darts at the fireplace and disappears up the chimney. This film surprises everyone, and leaves them to wonder how old Kris disappears."