Christmas Past
AND
Present
12/2/22 UPDATE: Member’s Night has been canceled after careful thought due to this evening’s forecast. Hall County is included in a High Wind Warning from 3:00 – 10:00 p.m. today with sustained winds of 30-40 mph and damaging gusts of up to 60 mph forecasted. These conditions, in combination with the dry conditions and lanterns that are lit across the grounds during this event, could potentially prove dangerous for visitors, staff, and museum structures. Christmas Past & Present will continue as scheduled for the remaining dates, 12/3, 12/4, 12/9 & 12/10. Please make plans to join us during one of these other times. Thank you for your understanding, and please stay safe tonight!
Christmas Past
Take a step back in time and explore Christmas traditions and preparations of the past! As you stroll through historic Railroad Town, you’ll get to experience what Christmas might have looked like in the 1890s. The homes will be decorated for the holiday, with wreaths, holly, and bright red bows about the house, but what about a Christmas tree? And what cooking or baking is being done to prepare for the big day?
The businesses are also preparing for Christmas! A few of the things you will encounter include:
•The blacksmith, busy hammering away as he fills last-minute orders
•The tinsmith, making his famous ‘tinsicles’
•The planing mill is the place to go if one wants to build a little toy train ($5 per train car)
•The Mercantile is bustling with shoppers finding the perfect gifts for their loved ones
•And the Town Hall is where Father Christmas can be found!
Beyond Railroad Town, visitors can also visit the cabin to see how Christmas preparations in the 1860s might vary, as well as the Cleary Farm, where we take a look at Christmas after 1900. Look for the lanterns to guide you along your journey!
Christmas Present
Visit the Leo. B. Stuhr Building for a modern Christmas experience! Explore the Fantasy of Trees exhibit, a celebration of community as businesses and organizations in the area come together to create the largest display of Christmas trees in Grand Island. Each tree is beautifully decorated for the season, bringing a feeling of holiday cheer.
While admiring the trees, you’ll hear sounds of Christmas, from music to Santa’s occasional ‘ho-ho-hos’ as he greets kids (and adults!) and listens to their holiday wishes. Tasty treats will also be found in the Stuhr Bistro, with cookies, fudge, and cocoa to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Music Schedule
The sounds of the season will ring across Stuhr Museum’s grounds during Christmas Past & Present! A music schedule will be made available here closer to the event. Interested in sharing your music with us? Contact us at events@stuhrmuseum.org or call (308) 385-5316 for more information!
