Fall River, Mass., November 24, 2012 … What do the last queen of France, wooden nutcracker figures, and a mythical devil-like figure with horns made of coal have in common? The answer can be found at Christmas Lore & Legends, the Holiday Open House at the Fall River Historical Society (FRHS), which this year features four splendid themed trees: Ode to Marie Antoinette; Nussknacker Festival; O Tannenbaum, a traditional fir tree with more than 5,000 lights and 1,100 mouth-blown ornaments; and a black tree dedicated to Krampus, the frightening imaginary companion of St. Nicholas who deals with children who have behaved badly.
“Krampus disappeared in America during the Victorian era, but we have amazing images on our tree that show him doing things such as dragging away naughty children in his sack,” said Michael Martins, curator of the FRHS. “We are certainly not trying to scare kids or celebrate devils. But we do think our guests will enjoy learning about Krampus and where the idea of receiving coal at Christmas originated. It’s really all about good and evil. Nutcrackers have something to do
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with evil as well, but most people don’t know that.”
To create their Krampus theme, Martins and co-curator Dennis Binette had to find a full-size black Christmas tree and search far and wide for material with which to decorate it. Krampus ornaments were ultimately located in California and Canada, and the unusual result now stands at the head of the staircase in the FRHS mansion, surrounded by a mound of coal.
“You won’t find another tree like it anywhere else,” said Martins. “Everyone who has seen it so far has been fascinated by it.”
Visitors at the Open House will also learn interesting facts about other legends and lore, including the peppermint pig, the glass pickle, and the famous saying “Let them eat cake!” Martins said.
Marie Antoinette, Krampus, and nutcracker items, along with a wide array of
distinctive gifts, seasonal goodies, and old-fashioned and handmade confections, Fall River Historical Society, 3
are available at the Society’s Museum Shop and McWhirr’s Candy Store. The Society’s popular annual silent auction of works by local artists, Palette Pictures,
also runs throughout the holiday season.
The open house can be visited now through December 30, at 451 Rock Street, Monday to Friday from 9 to 4 pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 5 pm. Admission is free. FRHS will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas days and at noon on December 24th. More information at www.lizzieborden.org or (508) 679-1071, ext. 1 or 2.
