James Edgar “First Department Store Santa”
There will be a dedication of a plaque commemorating James Edgar, the first department store Santa Claus, on Sunday, November 23rd at 12:30 p.m. The dedication ceremony will be held in front of the parking garage located at the corner of Crescent and Main Street. James Edgar was a Main Street department store owner who began the tradition of a department store Santa in December, 1890. His innovative approach to bringing excitement to children during the Christmas season caught on around the country and remains a common holiday practice today. James Edger and his accomplishments have been highlighted in the Plymouth County Notable Land records collection available on the website.
As part of the dedication, the sponsors of this event, the Downtown Brockton Association, are attempting to make a new record in the Guinness Book of World Records for the most people gathered in one place wearing Santa Claus hats. You can bring your own hat or buy one for $2.00. Registration for the event is $1.00 and begins at 11:30 a.m. at Joe Angelo’s Restaurant next door. All proceeds will support Brockton’s annual Holiday Parade.
Celebrate history and kick off the holidays at this fun event.
