Civil War Santa to Visit Chatham

Old Saint Nick will be taking time out of his busy schedule to meet with children at Chatham Manor from 1 - 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 22. 

As a special favor to the National Park Service, the Jolly Old Elf will dress in patriotic period clothes of the fashion worn when visiting children during the Civil War, including a blue star-spangled jacket and festive red-and-white striped trousers. 

In addition to visiting with Santa, children will learn what Christmas was like in the 1860s, participate in a scavenger hunt and make decorations for Chatham.

Friends of Chatham members will serve punch and cookies in the kitchen building.  The program is free.

Chatham is a Georgian-style house built between 1768 and 1771, which served as for many years the center of a large, thriving plantation.  It is located at 120 Chatham Lane in Stafford County, directly across the Rappahannock River from Fredericksburg.  To reach the house from the downtown area, take Route 3 (William Street) east across the Rappahannock River, turn left on Chatham Heights Road (Route 212), and left again onto Chatham Lane.  National Park Service brown signs mark the way. 

Related stories:

• Santa Claus is Coming to (Down)Town!
• A Comprehensive List of Fredericksburg Holiday Events 2013
• Holiday Volunteer Opportunities in the Fredericksburg Area