Exploring the rich history of Christmas celebrations in Carlsbad, New Mexico
Carlsbad, known as the Pearl of the Pecos, has always held a special place in its heart for Christmas. From the late 1800s to the present day, this desert city in southeast New Mexico has celebrated the holiday season with local events, shopping specials, and a sense of togetherness. Delving into the Carlsbad Current-Argus archives, we take a journey through time to explore the Christmas traditions that have shaped the community and brought joy to its residents.
1880s: Simple Pleasures and Thoughtful Gifts
In the 1880s, while the Civil War was a recent memory and the Second Industrial Revolution was in full swing, Carlsbad reveled in the simpler pleasures of the holiday season. Newspaper clippings from the time reveal how Ulysses S. Grant, a prominent figure of the Civil War, celebrated Christmas and Thanksgiving in the soldier camps. In contrast to the formal ceremonies enjoyed by Confederate General Robert E. Lee, Grant’s celebrations were marked by thoughtful gestures from patriots in the north, who sent turkeys to the camps. Another clipping highlights a local judge receiving a unique Christmas gift—an ear trumpet from an admiring friend.
1900s: Christmas at Sea and Music-filled Celebrations
In the early 1900s, an editorial by Admiral Bob Evans titled “Christmas at Sea” offered a glimpse into his experiences spending Christmas on the ocean during the Civil War. Despite the challenges of combat, the sailors managed to decorate their ships with Christmas green, symbolizing the spirit of the season. Meanwhile, Carlsbad’s community was alive with musical celebrations. Newspaper reports mentioned Mrs. Virginia Coffman, a music teacher, who was busy preparing for Christmas music at the Episcopal church. Her dedication to spreading joy through music exemplified the festive spirit of the era.
1920s: Economic Boom and Greetings from Local Businesses
The Roaring Twenties brought an economic boom to Carlsbad, following the end of World War I. Newspaper clippings from the 1920s showcased the thriving local businesses and their Christmas greetings to the community. Advertisements by Pratt-Smith Hardware Co. and plumber H.A. Bock expressed warm wishes to their customers, reflecting the strong economy and the holiday cheer that permeated the city.
1930s: Parties, Performances, and the Swastika Club
In the 1930s, Carlsbad’s Christmas celebrations were marked by parties, performances, and community gatherings. The Business and Professional Women’s Club hosted an annual Christmas party, while Mr. and Mrs. R.U. Boyd organized a Christmas dinner. A “roof garden dance” at Hotel Artesia and a performance by the Toy Symphony Orchestra added to the festive atmosphere. Intriguingly, an article from 1932 mentioned a Christmas dinner hosted by the Swastika Club. At that time, the swastika symbol held a different meaning, representing eastern spirituality, before it was adopted by Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party.
1940s: Christmas in the Shadow of World War II
With World War II raging, Carlsbad’s Christmas celebrations were colored by the war and its impact on the community. Newspaper reports from the 1940s highlighted Pope Pius’s appeal for the end of the conflict and the “last Christmas of war.” Meanwhile, American fighter planes launched a significant assault on the Pas-De-Calais “rocket-gun coast” on Christmas Day, underscoring the ongoing battle overseas.
1960s: Vietnam War and International Perspectives
During the 1960s, the Vietnam War dominated the headlines and influenced Carlsbad’s Christmas coverage. A poignant photograph from 1967 showed two Vietnamese girls receiving artificial Christmas trees, as the real ones did not thrive in Vietnam’s climate. Another story from 1969 described a battle in Cambodia, marking a significant moment in the war. These events reflected the global impact of the conflict and the challenges faced by those in service during the holiday season.
1980s: Cold War Tensions and Political Debates
The 1980s saw the intensification of the Cold War, and Carlsbad’s Christmas celebrations were not immune to political tensions. A newspaper article from 1985 highlighted Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega’s accusation that U.S. President Ronald Reagan was seeking a “War at Christmas.” Amidst these international conflicts, local businesses continued to spread holiday cheer with advertisements for Christmas buffets and greetings to the community.
2000s: Political Climate and Virtual Celebrations
In the early 2000s, Carlsbad’s Christmas celebrations were influenced by the tense political climate. A column from 2006 discussed the debates surrounding the “war on Christmas,” reflecting the ongoing cultural and religious discussions of the time. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 brought significant changes to the holiday season. The renowned Christmas on the Pecos boat rides had to be altered, with virtual options allowing visitors to experience the magic from home. However, in 2021, as the pandemic subsided, live boat rides resumed, bringing back the cherished tradition.
Conclusion:
Carlsbad’s rich history of Christmas celebrations reflects the resilience and spirit of its community. From simple pleasures in the 1880s to the challenges of war in the mid-20th century and the complexities of the modern era, Carlsbad has always found a way to come together and celebrate the holiday season. As the city moves into the future, its cherished traditions will continue to evolve, reminding us of the importance of unity, joy, and the spirit of Christmas.
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