NPS - National Park Service

11/21/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/21/2024 02:02

Civil War Era Santa at Appomattox Court House NHP

News Release Date:
November 21, 2024

Contact: Brian Miller, 434-694-8904

Appomattox, Va. -Celebrate the holiday season with a historical twist! Hosted in partnership with the Appomattox 1865 Foundation, this free, family-friendly event will be held on Sunday, December 15, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Appomattox Court House National Historical Park.

The event offers visitors the chance to experience holiday traditions from the 1860s, including photos with a Civil War-era Santa Claus and fun holiday craft activities for all ages. The modern image of Santa Claus first appeared during the Civil War with Harper's Weekly cartoonist Thomas Nast in 1863 depicting Santa dressed in an American flag-like outfit with stars on his coat and stripes on his pants distributing gifts to Federal soldiers.

For additional information, please contact Appomattox Court House NHP at 434-694-8904.

About The Appomattox 1865 Foundation: The mission of the Appomattox 1865 Foundation is to enrich the understanding and appreciation of the heritage and significance of Appomattox Court House National Historical Park. The Foundation focuses on efforts to preserve the past, augment financial support, commemorate history and enhance each and every visitor's experience

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About Appomattox Court House National Historical Park:On April 9, 1865, the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia in the McLean House in the village of Appomattox Court House, Virginia signaled the end of the nation's largest war. The stories of Appomattox Court House go far beyond the final significant battles of this nation's Civil War. Learn more at www.nps.gov/apco.

About the National Park Service: More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America's more than 420 national park units and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Visit us at www.nps.gov , on Facebook www.facebook.com/nationalparkservice , Twitter www.twitter.com/natlparkservice , and YouTube www.youtube.com/nationalparkservice .