Sherburne History Center Blog

As we explore the traditions and customs evident in the Christmas season an interesting question arises: how did Santa Claus carry on with the business of giving out toys during a crisis?  In the archives of the Sherburne History Center, we found evidence to suggest that although Santa Claus maintains a high level of diligence, his creativity and thoughtful nature allows him to achieve his tasks, still in one night!  A letter found in the archives of the Sherburne History Center further explains Santa’s workload.  Addressed to the Nelson sisters in Zimmerman, Minn, the letter, written during World War Two.  Although it is dated: “Not many days before Christmas.” With his busy schedule, Mrs. Santa Claus takes on the job of replying to Christmas letters.  “Santa works until nearly morning these nights and so he has me do all his writing for him,” she explained.  She went on to note that “he will have to use reindeers this year because of gas-rationing.”...

Thanksgiving marks the beginning of several celebratory feasts.   The turkey day, Christmas, and New Year’s Day call for some type of feast and celebration. With the end of the Thanksgiving feast, I paused to wonder about the food I had just devoured.   Specifically, why turkey?   After a brief search, I discovered a variety of meats served during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.   Each of the centerpieces, whether they be turkey, goose, or pork; held a significant meaning to traditional diners.   In the United States most holiday revelers held Turkey as the primary dish of a festive meal.   Whether at Christmas or Thanksgiving, the bird of choice remained the gobbler.   The wild turkey must be hunted and killed.   And so, early feasts celebrated the holiday and the hunting skills of family members.   As you move into the twentieth century, turkeys became domestic farm animals and more easily attainable.   Goose and pork, on th...