The Nicholson Sesquicentennial Committee presents “The Ghosts of Christmas Past” on December 13, 2025. They will host an exhibit from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and a presentation at 1:30 p.m. at the Nicholson Tourism Center at the Historic DL&W Railroad Station, 21 Lackawanna Trail (Route 11) in Nicholson.
Did you ever wonder why we bring a tree into the house and decorate it? Or what garland once symbolized when it decked the halls? Why did stockings (of all things) become the vessel for holiday treats? Or who first shaped the modern image of Santa Claus (hint: it wasn’t Clement Moore)? The answers to these questions — and many more stories behind our most cherished customs — will be revealed in this captivating presentation exploring the history and evolution of Christmas traditions.
Adding to the magic, visitors will experience an extensive collection of antique and vintage Christmas relics dating from the 19th to mid‑20th centuries. These fragile treasures, such as hand‑blown glass ornaments, faded ribbons, and tarnished tinsel, survived decades of attic heat, winter cold, and the passage of time. Though their luster may have dimmed, they were never discarded. Instead, they were lovingly preserved as keepsakes, reminders of family, community, and the enduring spirit of Christmas.
“Together, these relics and stories connect us to generations past, reminding us that the traditions we celebrate today are part of a shared identity — a living thread of belonging passed down through time,” said Kathy Steele of the Nicholson Sesquicentennial Committee. “Their survival is itself a testament to the belief in the wonder, the magic, and the miracle of Christmas!”
After the presentation, join for a community Christmas celebration at the corner of Main and State Streets from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will meet with the children, and there will be food vendors and family fun. A tree lighting is scheduled for 5 p.m.
For more information, please visit nicholsonsesquicentennial.com or follow the Nicholson Sesquicentennial on Facebook.