The Storied Past of Christmas

How did early Texas pioneers celebrate Christmas? Where did the Santa Claus stories come from? Why do we decorate trees in our homes at this time? Join our park interpreter for a presentation on the history of Christmas and how the ways we celebrate this season have changed (or not!) over the years.

Christmas is and has been a time of telling stories. Whether it be monks reading the Nativity, 20th century children listening to stories of Santa Claus or folks today re-watching their favorite holiday movies, this is a time for telling and re-telling the classics.

But what are the origins of this holiday? Why do we decorate trees and wreaths in our homes this time of year? Who was the original Santa Claus? And what did early Americans think of this holiday, including the settlers who called East Texas home?

Stop by the historic Rice Family Log Home for a presentation from our park interpreter about the fascinating history of this holiday.

Where: The Rice Family Log Home. Office Staff can provide directions.

When: Dec. 7 at 1 PM.

Cost: General Admission: $3/person. Kids 12 or under and carriers of Texas State Park Passes get in for free!