Victorian Christmas at the O’Dell House Museum

Things are quickly coming together for the most wonderful time of the year at the O’Dell House Museum. Volunteers have been in the woods gathering fir boughs, Canadian holly and beech leaves. The gardens and orchards of Annapolis County have produced holly, boxwood, a variety of dried flowers and fruit. On a Monday morning in late November all of these elements are gathered together and the museum is transformed into a celebration of the beauty and simplicity of Christmas in the 1870s. “Victorian Christmas truly shows Annapolis Royal at its best,” said Ryan Scranton, Curator of the Annapolis Heritage Society. “In this one event we have a mixture of history, the natural environment, the artistry of our decorators and a whole heap of volunteerism. This event really does highlight the strengths of our community.”

When you enter the museum you can tell that something interesting is happening. Rather than the glare of electric light, the museum is lit with traditional oil lamps and candles. A friendly costumed interpreter greets you, offers some cookies and a cup of hot-mulled apple cider. From around the corner you can hear the sound of people singing carols. As you walk toward the music, you begin to notice the delicately made strings of fir garland and the swags above the doors. Exploring a bit deeper into the building you have the chance to meet costumed interpreters who are busy working in the kitchen or reading stories in the parlour. It is not hard to understand how this event has been a tradition in Annapolis Royal for almost 40 years.

This event will take place at the O’Dell House Museum on November 29 & 30 and on December 6 & 7 from 7 pm to 9 pm and on December 8 from 2 pm to 4 pm.