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Community Corner

The Spirit of Christmas Past: Four Centuries of Christmas in New England

The Spirit of Christmas Past: Four Centuries of Christmas in New England



The holidays are right around the corner! Why not prepare to celebrate this season with a historic foundation understanding Christmas as it was celebrated over the years here in Darien and, more widely, in New England?

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.



Kenneth C. Turino, Manager of Community Engagement and

Exhibitions at Historic New England, has published several articles on the

history of Christmas and speaks on the topic widely. He will look at how

Christmas was transformed from a rowdy celebration to a family centered event.



Among the topics discussed will be: how the Christmas tree became popular, halls were

decked, and Santa Claus came to town.
 
Refreshments will be

served.


November 24; 2pm



Darien Historical Society; 45 Old Kings Highway
Members $15/ non-members $20

To RSVP please email


Ulla Kremer ukremer@darienhistorical.org
Or call: 203 655 9233




  

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