Father Christmas to bring holiday memories to Moreland
Kenneth Neff Hammontree will present an evening with Father Christmas, bringing to life the past of one of the nation’s most beloved Christmas characters. The event will take place at Moreland Church of God on Sunday, Dec. 8 at 4 p.m.
Father Christmas is set to make an appearance in the area on Dec. 8, and his story will bring an entirely new appreciation for the Christmas season, unlike most modern-day portrayals of Santa Claus.
Kenneth Neff Hammontree, who is well known for his portrayals, will present an evening with Father Christmas, bringing to life the past of one of the nation’s most beloved Christmas characters.
The event will take place at Moreland Church of God on Sunday, Dec. 8 at 4 p.m.
Known as “Mr. Ohio History,” Hammontree pours himself into each of his characters, whether it is former U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Daniel Boone or a long list of important historical figures throughout Ohio.
“His presentations are extremely intriguing and informative, and we invite everyone to join us for what should be a beautiful time of Christmas spirit,” Gail Miller of the Moreland Community Historical Society said. “Mr. Hammontree is well known for recreating so many wonderful historical people, and this one is special.”
The program is free, and refreshments will be served during the event.
An Ashland resident, Hammontree began his career as an educator, teaching American and Ohio history. During that tenure he realized many of his students were unaware of Ohio’s historical past, so he set about recreating some key historical figures by dressing up and portraying them in public. Hammontree would even occasionally dress up in character while teaching his classes.
That was the beginning of Living History Productions, Hammontree’s effort to bring these historical figures to life.
Throughout the years the educator and portrayer of historical figures has accumulated an inventory of wigs, makeup, outfits and other memorabilia that allow him to transform into character.
His list of historical characters continues to grow, although any newcomer to the family must meet certain criteria: displayed integrity, had moral credibility, and someone everyone can look up to for their character and learn from.
Hammontree does extensive research on each individual, making sure they meet those standards, and he pours himself into learning how to best recreate their life, their work and their message.
In addition to his portrayals, Hammontree is an accomplished author.
His first book, “There Was a Time,” is a historical novel centered around the life of Jenny Wade, the only civilian killed in the Battle of Gettysburg.
The recently renovated Moreland Church of God, which features loads of artwork from local artist Rusty Baker, who recently passed away, is located at 7135 Millersburg Road in the heart of Moreland.