Annual Christmas on the Farm a success amid global pandemic

by Joan Tucker

On Dec. 5 and 6, the Waterloo Area Historical Society worked especially hard to have its annual Christmas on the Farm activity that’s become a tradition for so many people in our area. Because of ever-changing COVID guidelines, the organization had to revise procedures several times to provide a safe environment. The weather was mild for early winter, allowing a pleasant stroll around the Farm Museum’s grounds. This year, people could look into the log house to see how it might be decorated for Christmas. On a normal year, visitors would be invited into the log cabin to witness the decorations close up, warming themselves by the fire, and smelling the aroma of mulled cider. They might head over to the forge to watch the heating and bending of metal. Fortunately, this year the icehouse was open, where people—one at a time with a mask–had the opportunity to purchase a beautiful wreath, an annual opportunity I personally enjoy.

Keeping with the 30% capacity regulations for square footage, the Society permitted visitors to enter the Realy House, one family at a time, to shop for gifts from local vendors. Some of the items included Mx6 Beeswax candles, Betty’s Best Goat Milk Soap, Swallowtail Pottery, handmade socks (SOX) by Beverly Larson, aprons made by Arlene Kaiser, and a lovely warm quilt designed by Cathy Alter, along with many handmade ornaments. James Clark-Swalla, of Digital Crumbs Photography, set up in the living room to take photos of Santa and children whose parents had made appointments. Jenny Smith, of Rook’s Roast Photography, took pictures Sunday. As a safety precaution, Santa was COVID tested prior to the event.

Even though this year has been so different, families that came out for the event were happy and grateful to experience a Christmas on the Farm.

Adam and Carl Stoker have a visit with Santa. Photo Credit: Joan Tucker

Betty’s Best Goat’s Milk Soap

Swallowtail Pottery offer a variety of mugs

Aprons made by Arlene Kaiser and Christmas Quilt made by Cathy Alter