The big topic on everyone's mind these days is Lord's Department Store, the iconic downtown store is closing next month after 73 years in business.
We know how the closing will affect adults, but one Patch reader said it will also affect children, and asked, "What about Santa?
"Not sure if any other Medfield moms are wondering but, what about Santa?...For as long as we've lived here, we've taken our children to see Santa on the first Friday in December. I have all the old Polaroids dated, and I treasure them and the experience itself. My kids labor over their Christmas lists which they go over with Santa in as much detail as they can on that evening! The man in the suit may have changed over the years but Santa's backdrop and the "throne" have remained the same all this time. Will anyone be taking over this tradition?
Patch asked Nancy Kelly-Lavin (who co-owns Lord's with her brother Tom) what will happen to Santa's Big Chair and the backdrop. She said, "The Santa back drop and props have already been spoken for" and she was sure they would be used for a good cause.
That answer may be a little vague but word on the street is that another local retailer may hold its own version of Midnight Madness -- a holiday tradition started by Lord's 43 years ago where retailers stay open late and offer deep discounts in conjunction with the town's annual tree-lighting ceremony.
That being said, I would not be surprised if we see some familiar holiday trappings (including props and a Big Chair) pop up next Christmas but we'll have to wait and see -- anything can happen in 11 months.
We will keep our ears open and will let you know if we hear anything concrete.
About this Column
"You Ask, Patch Answers" is where we strive to find answers to all your questions—big, small and in-between—about the town in which we live and work.
Whether it’s something you’ve always wondered about, some information you just can’t put your hands on, or a sudden curiosity, we want to hear it.
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Theresa Knapp
8:55 am on Friday, January 25, 2013
UPDATE: Patch has heard from Jim James that Santa Claus will visit Park Street Books and Toys in December!
Colleen M. Sullivan
8:59 am on Friday, January 25, 2013
As the photographer who has worked with Santa Claus these past 10 years or so at Lord's, I am also sad that this tradition will be no longer. I have many, many fond memories of young children's faces as they gazed up at Santa's face but also recall some screaming babies who were placed on his lap and wondered why? It has been a pleasure to be Santa's photographer for these many years and I will miss it greatly!