As we inch toward Christmas 2016, I had the opportunity to interview another family friend, Debi Watkins, to learn about Christmas in the 1960's. Join me for Christmas in the 1960's!
What was a typical Christmas like for you in the 60's?
Debi: "[We had] minimal decor. The 60's had the horrendous aluminum trees. My mom might use the same or coordinated ornaments. One of my grandmothers even had a color wheel. I remember family ornaments that mom used being pre-aluminum, and fortunately she went back to that. I worked at a garden center in college. I remember calling home and telling mom I wasn't coming home if she didn't have a real tree! [My] parents were in Germany in the late 50's, [and] Mom brought back some Dresden angels. They were a part of Christmas and are part of mine now, Also a Nativity from Germany."
What gifts do you remember?
Debi: "[I remember] Barbie's, Shirley Temple doll, lots of dolls, strollers, art supplies later. Brother Jim [received] trucks (Tonka [is] still around!) and army men. I remember my Mom saying she spent about $25 per child. [I'm] not sure what that is equivalent to in 2016."
What did you call the man in a red suit who brought presents, and did you believe in him?
Debi: "Santa. Yes! We made spritz cookies for him and left carrots for the reindeer."
What special family traditions do you remember?
Debi: "[I remember] the big Christmas meal, [with] certain dishes always served. My grandmother made mayonnaise. It's delicious! I still do."
(Pictured: Debi's personal tangible relics of childhood Christmas.)
What was the meaning of Christmas in your family during the 60's, and was religion a part of your Christmas experience?
Debi: "Christ's birth. Yes. We went [to church] every time the doors were open. So, music was a big part and plays."
What Christmas songs do you remember from the 60's?
Debi: "'The Messiah,' 'Do you Hear What I Hear,' 'It's a Holly Jolly Christmas,' music from Rudolph and Charlie Brown Christmas. Carols of course. On TV there were a lot of variety shows, and these all had Christmas Specials. There were the King family, Mitch Mitchell, Perry Como, Andy Williams. My mom always had music on."
Do you remember Christmas in the 1960's? If you do, share your Christmas memories in the comments below!
