Highlights Archives
A Nostalgic Look at Christmases Past
At the Wisconsin Historical Museum, holiday memories are brought back with classic dollhouses and aluminum Christmas trees during the museum's first annual 'Tis the Season gallery. From December 13 through January 3, come take in the nostalgia of the holidays of yore. Seasonal movies, shown upon request, complement the gallery.
The Aluminum Specialty Company of Manitowoc, Wisconsin, had been manufacturing aluminum toys for decades when they stumbled upon a new idea — the aluminum Christmas tree. After introducing the tree at the American Toy Fair in March of 1959, hundreds of thousands of trees were produced. As time wore on, revolving stands, color wheels and trees in a variety of colors became available. Though it's popularity peaked in the mid-1960s, the aluminum tree remains a highly desired collectible.
Dollhouses were the most memorable gifts for numerous children across the world, whether they were handmade miniatures featuring intricate craftsmanship, or manufactured dollhouses meant for play. 'Tis the Season features both kinds of houses, including an intricate Southern Colonial dollhouse.
On December 20 at 10:30 a.m., the classic film, All Mine to Give, will be shown in the museum theater. The 1957 film is based on the true story of a young Scottish couple and their six children. When the parents lose their battle with a raging epidemic at Christmas time, the children are orphaned, leaving the eldest son to determine how to care for his younger brothers and sisters. Other holiday movies, shown upon request, tell the story of the Rouse Simmons schooner, more commonly known as the "Christmas Tree Ship," along with another film highlighting multicultural holiday celebrations. Visitors to the 'Tis the Season gallery can request to see the films at the museum's information desk.
:: Posted December 8, 2008
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