The Puritan War on Christmas 'Trappings of popery and rags of the beast'. Mince-pies, mummers, holly and church services all fell victim to a determined Puritan attempt to stamp out the celebration of Christmas under the Commonwealth. Chris Durston | Published in History Today Volume 35 Issue 12 December 1985 The Westminster Assembly, which met from 1643-49, in a Victorian history painting by John Rogers Herbert. To continue reading this article you will need to purchase access to the online archive. Buy Online Access Buy Print & Archive Subscription If you have already purchased access, or are a print & archive subscriber, please ensure you are logged in. Please email digital@historytoday.com if you have any problems.