Santa Just Wasn't Himself Until He Met Thomas Nast
The Santa Claus we know today—the chubby, jolly man who lives at the North Pole—didn't exist until editorial cartoonist Thomas Nast began drawing him around the time of the American Civil War.
It’s that time of year again! We thought it was never going to get here! What time of year am I talking about? Well, Christmas Time of course! Here at the Weston Branch, we are extremely happy that December has arrived. Yule logs, hot cider, Christmas trees, presents….we have been waiting on it all. You would think we would be satisfied with all of this, but we are not. No, we had to have more to make this holiday season very special.
Santa is making his rounds this time of year! It’s time for the little ones to line up to tell the jolly old elf all their wishes for Christmas this year. When I was a young girl, I was actually quite afraid of Santa. My first photo with Santa shows me screaming and crying. When my family asked me how I liked my visit with Santa, I became sheepish and said, "I cried." My mother says it was several more years before I’d even go near the big guy.
Did you hear that!?! There was a sound up on the rooftop, the prancing and pawing of each little hoof. I looked out the window and saw nothing, but I could hear the echo of a Ho-Ho-Ho!
When: Wednesday, December 21, 2011 - 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Where: Main Street Railroad Crossing to 12th Street, Downtown Blue Springs
We expect the six car long Holiday Express Train to arrive around 4 p.m. Come see Santa and his elves. There will be refreshments. Be sure to visit Santa’s workshop for activities and crafts (inside the Howard Brown Public Safety Building).
Well actually, he came to the Buckner Branch with his lovely wife – Mrs. Claus. They told stories, and the kids all had an opportunity to tell Santa what they wanted for Christmas. It occurred to me that sometimes we get so caught up in the newest must-have item or sophisticated holiday celebrations that we forget the simple pleasure and anticipation of a visit with Santa.
So here’s wishing all of you a wonderful holiday season.
What image comes to mind when you think of Santa Claus? Chances are good that it is very similar to the ones brought to life by Thomas Nast, best known as a nineteenth century political cartoonist. He has also been credited with creating the image of Santa we know today.
This is my favorite time of year! I love the holiday decorations, the gift-giving, and the planning of surprises for the entire family. I could watch How the Grinch Stole Christmas at least once a week between now and December 25.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at the Grain Valley Branch Saturday December, 8th at 10:00 a.m. for stories and an opportunity to visit with Santa. Bring the camera and capture this memory forever.
Can you hear what I hear? Santa Claus! And Mrs. Claus, too? Since when does she make house calls? I thought she always stayed at the North Pole to keep track of the elves' shenanigans. Do you know why elves make the toys and never get them? My theory is that they are always naughty enough to keep them from getting presents but nice enough to not get a lump of coal. I'm sure they keep her very busy, but this is a very special occasion!
