Civil War Era Santa at Appomattox Court House NHP

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.