Christmas in Zoar took guests back in time

  • By Kyle Valentini
  • December 5, 2011
  • 375
                        
Summary: Zoar was the place to be last weekend when the museums, shops and private residences were open for the public’s enjoyment. Fine crafts, music and a visit from the German Santa, Belsnickle were just a few of the attractions that helped guests celebrate the Christmas season in the village. Christmas in Zoar epitomized charm as the village welcomed guests with holiday music, skilled artisans, delicious food, museums and expanded tours of some of the village’s treasured homes at a pace that is a bit slower and a lot less stressful than a shopping mall or discount store this time of year. Held Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 3 and 4 in historic Zoar, the event had something for guests of all ages and shared the Christmas customs the German Separatists that settled Zoar in 1817 would have celebrated. Herbie, a two-year old reindeer spent the day in the garden where he passed the time by eating grass, rubbing his antlers on anything he could and allowing guests to pet his surprisingly soft fur. His handler shared information about the animals that are native to the Arctic tundra. Hollow hair allows the reindeer to live in extremely cold areas as it acts as an insulator. Co-chair for the holiday event, Darin Good said, “We were so pleased we were able to get the reindeer to come back. Everyone enjoys seeing him. Attendance is great this year with the warmer weather.” The corner of Third and Park Streets served as the pick-up point for the popular horse-drawn wagon ride that took place throughout the afternoon. The Zoar Town Hall Museum offered guests a glimpse of the founding of Zoar and the building of the Ohio & Erie Canal. Shoppers found unique crafts from local artisans in the Number One House and the School House. The blacksmith shop and tin shop were also open and offered demonstrations and crafts. The Garden House featured a plant sale, a period-decorated Christmas tree with handmade ornaments and Santa’s Workshop on the second floor where kids could choose to make a craft with the assistance of volunteers from Perry Local Schools. “Darin Good is one of our teachers and he asked us to help out for the weekend,” said Jacob Hanes, an 11th grader at Perry Local. “We are happy to do it. It’s a lot of fun working with the kids helping them make crafts they can take home with them.” Belsnickle, a fur-clad version of Santa Claus, greeted children and was gracious enough to allow photographs to be taken. Upon entering the bakery the smell of cookies and cider filled the air. The warmest building in the village, the bakery was crowded all day with guest stocking up on cookies, apple fritters and various traditional German baked goods. The Zoar United Church of Christ featured organ music, the Trumpet in the Land Singers, choirs and even a live manger scene in honor of the season. Holy Trinity Church served bratwurst and German potato salad while Jim Dandy’s Flying Pig Bar-Be-Que featured pulled pork sandwiches for hungry guests meandering through the village streets. Four private homes were open for tours. The Tammy Bennet Home was built in 1897 after the Separatist society dissolved. Ms. Bennet is only the fourth owner of the home that is Victorian in style. House Number 31 was built in 1877. One of the final frame homes built prior to the society disbanding in 1898, the home is currently owned by Hans Fischer. Weaving Haus Antiques & Indian River Graphics and The Cider Mill Bed & Breakfast and Gift Shop were also featured on the tour. The museums and businesses of Zoar welcome you to visit throughout the holiday season for one-of-a kind gifts, unparalleled hospitality and a glimpse of the way it used to be.


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