My Dad told me the same thing - an orange in his stocking was the highlight of Christmas. Yes, height of the depression in Indianapolis.
We got an orange in our stocking every year, or sometimes a tangerine, from the tree outside our home, of course; not the grocery store.
Underwear and socks were also often gifts.
My how things changed not long after that, and now it looks like we are returning to those days.
An ORANGE in Indianapolis in December was a treat in itself. Certainly NOT grown there.
When I was a kid, I always got oranges in my stocking at Christmas. I always thought it was because I like oranges. Then I grew up and realized it was a tradition from the depression when that’s all you got. Mom and dad really should not have just emptied the fruit bowl into the stocking since it made the Santa thing obvious but my older sister cried at 11 when finally told the truth. She cried but said at least the Easter bunny and tooth fairy were still real. I kid you not. I was 2.5 years younger and knew since 6. Parents get a bit lazy with second and third children. Long story.