Raynham Hall Museum is bringing the holiday spirit to life this December with its Candlelight Tours, offering a unique look at how Christmas traditions evolved in Oyster Bay. The tours, scheduled for Dec. 13, 14, and 15, delve into the historical roots of Christmas from the colonial era through the Victorian age, showcasing the transformations of this cherished holiday.
In the 1700s, Christmas in colonial Oyster Bay bore little resemblance to the vibrant celebrations seen today. According to Justinne Lake-Jedzinak, the museum’s director of education and public programs, the holiday was marked by simplicity and solemnity.
“Decorations would have included greenery and winter berries from the outdoors,” Lake-Jedzinak said. “It was a quiet time, more about reflection, with New Year’s being the bigger social event, marked by visiting friends and sharing food and drinks.”
The Revolutionary War era brought a notable Christmas connection with the Battle of Trenton, a pivotal Patriot victory on Dec. 26, 1776.
“The Townsends, being secret Patriots under British occupation, likely celebrated the victory quietly,” she added.
By the 19th century, Christmas had grown more similar to the festive holiday we recognize today. Victorian customs, influenced by a mix of cultural traditions, introduced decorated Christmas trees, communal feasts, and the idea of holiday gatherings centered on family and friends.
“The Townsends were among the first in Oyster Bay to display a Christmas tree in their Victorian parlor,” said Lake-Jedzinak. “Decorations then were often handmade, like paper ornaments, which added a personal touch.”
Gift-giving, while present during the colonial era in simpler forms, also evolved. Historical records show that Robert Townsend gifted a hat to one of his freed workers during the holiday season, a reflection of the era’s modest practices. By the Victorian age, gift-giving began to expand.
This year’s Candlelight Tours offer a chance to see Raynham Hall adorned with historically inspired decorations, including greenery, handcrafted ornaments, and a Victorian-style Christmas tree. Visitors can also view two special exhibits: a diorama of the Battle of Trenton created by board member Richard Schuster and Christmas shadow boxes on loan from museum friend Janet Teagle.
The tours, starting at 7:30 p.m. each evening, provide an experience into the Christmases of yesteryear. For those seeking a more casual visit, the museum will host a free holiday open house on Saturday, Dec. 14, from 1 to 5 p.m. The open house will feature seasonal refreshments, including hot cider and cookies, and give visitors a chance to explore the museum at their leisure.
“Our way of spreading holiday cheer is to let everybody in for these open houses,” said Lake-Jedzinak. “We really want people to be able to see the decorations at the height of the season, and not have to worry about paying for a tour.”
For tickets to the Candlelight Tours or more information, visit Raynham Hall Museum’s website, RaynhamHallMuseum.org or call the museum directly at (516) 922-6808.
