Sponsored by the Millbury Cultural Council

This well-illustrated lecture traces the development of the celebration of Christmas from the time it was outlawed in 17th Century New England through the beginning of the 21st Century when all the trappings of a traditional Christmas were in place. For many, the celebration of Christmas today is the most important holiday of the year. But many of the customs which we take for granted as part of the current holiday festivities and religious celebrations are actually a product of more recent history. The presentation will look at how Christmas was transformed from a rowdy celebration to a family centered event. Among the topics discussed are how the Christmas tree became popular, halls were decked, and Santa Clause came to town.

The Waters Family believed strongly in the importance of the Christmas Holiday and offered a lovely Christmas Eve ball to friends and neighbors. It is not widely known that Christmas was not a well celebrated holiday in centuries past but has evolved into what we know it is today. The Waters Family helped establish the importance of this holiday within the town with their generous hospitality and we wish to carry on this tradition by offering this holiday program.

Kenneth C. Turino, Manager of Community Partnerships and Resource Development at Historic New England will be giving this lecture. He has published several articles on the history of Christmas and has a book in development. He speaks on the topic widely and this is a regular program of his but he will interlace with facts pertinent to local Millbury history and traditions as well.

This lecture is geared toward teens and adults. Please call 508-865-0855 to register