Christmas in October may be a new concept for some, but it will be a night of past memories for attendees of the next Night at the Museum.
Local folk artist Cora Lou Robinson will share a Glimpse of Christmas Past and Christmas memories from friends and families of Webster Parish at the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum at 6 p.m., Monday, October 13.
“I hope people will come hear one of Minden’s beloved teachers and artists read excerpts from our new book that has been months in the making,” museum director Schelley Francis said. “I promise that you will have a wonderful evening of Christmas memories.” A special silent auction item will be up for bids that evening.
“We hope to have the books back by October and, just in time for Christmas, these will make a great gift for your family. It is a way to keep your family traditions alive for future generations.”
Francis said the project has been on her mind for years.
“Especially since I began my job as director of the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum in 2007,” she said.
“My favorite Christmas tradition that I have been doing for several years now is to read the book ‘Christmas Gift’ by author Ferrol Sams. This book takes me back in time and always makes me cry for the past. It has become my special gift, for those like-minded people that love the way things once were.”
Francis believes the act of recording memories is important for future generations.
“All of us have a special Christmas memory, tucked away in the back of our mind,” she said. “This book was created in hopes of bringing those memories out of just our thoughts, to be put down in print and shared. Christmases are special to every one of us, but as a child I felt like they were more special here in Minden and north Louisiana.
Robinson’s artwork graces the cover of the new book.
“A few years ago, her idea to write down her memories for her children and grandchildren gave me the idea to do a collection of stories from people here in Webster Parish,” Francis said. “This project began for me in February 2014, the memories began the day I was old enough to remember what Christmas was all about. I think you will see from all of these stories recorded in this book, that feeling is shared by many. We grew up in a time of feeling safe, of being sheltered from the harshness of the world outside our small town; we knew our neighbors and we cared about them.”
Cost of the 250-page book is $25 dollars each with $5 shipping and handling if it is mailed. Contact Francis at 377-3002 for more information.