The Christmas holiday comes with plenty of tradition, but it’s filled with a long line of history as well, more specifically, Victorian history.

You can experience a Victorian Chrismas right here in Indiana, and here to tell us more are “James Whitcomb Riley,” along with Victorian Santa and Mrs. Claus. 

a.    Victorian Christmas History in Indiana: 
i.    Christmas in Victorian times transitioned from a public, often raucous celebration to a more family-oriented holiday focused on faith and family. (For example, the Christmas tree became popular as a focal point for family and gift exchanges; Victorian recipe books came out with Christmas menus for family dinners.) 
ii.    Santa Claus really came into his own during this period, as artist Thomas Nast popularized the familiar image of the jolly, bearded man we all recognize today. 
iii.    During this time, Christmas cards also came into popularity. Mr. Riley received hundreds of Victorian postcards as he was recuperating from a stroke suffered in 1910. 
b.    Victorian Christmas Open House: 
i.    Saturday, December 8, 10am – 4pm, James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home at 528 Lockerbie St., in Historic Lockerbie Square Neighborhood
ii.    Victorian Santa Clause in the Visitor Center – take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus!
iii.    Arts and Crafts vendors, Tina’s Tea shop with Victorian teas on site, Free cookies and refreshments, live music in the parlor and choirs outside, NEW postcard exhibit and more. FREE event!

To learn more, visit www.RileyMuseumHome.org/calendar.