Christmas at the Black House
Halls of the historic Black House rang with laughter and a flurry of activity as children and adults participated in the Junior Auxiliary Santa’s House activities.
Approximately 200 guests visited the Federal-style home, built in 1825 by Jessee Coffee. Auxiliary members, in cooperation with the board of directors of The Eagle Fund, held open house in an effort to educate both young and old about the historic home and to inspire the joyous spirit of the holiday season.
The outside and first floor rooms of McMinnville’s oldest residence were decked out for the holidays, compliments of area businesses: Flower Basket, Expressions, All-O-K’sions, McMinnville Flower Shop and Southern Traditions.
Visitors were treated to a puppet show featuring auxiliary puppets in the dining room, which was brought to life with fresh greenery and fruit adornment. Gracing the table was an arrangement of boxwood greenery and crisp green apples topped with a pineapple crown depicting the symbol of hospitality. Blazing red poinsettias were clustered on the hearth and pots of blooming narcissus were placed at focal points. An old-time kissing ball was suspended from the chandelier draped with fresh strung cranberries.
A wreath of greenery tied with red velvet bows welcomed guests through the front entrance and into the foyer. A 10-foot tall pencil tree stood gracefully in the foyer that was decorated with frosted fruits, Santas and colorful ornaments. A greenery garland with pine cones and candies draped the stair railing up to the landing, holding life-like dolls in Christmas pajamas.
After receiving a greeting from Mrs. Claus, a story-telling session was held in the sitting room for youngsters amid lovely metallic gold angel decorations. Two large angels were hung over the mantle mirror decorated with ivory magnolias and evergreen boughs. A large tree with twinkling white lights and gold accents stood in the corner.
Candy canes and songs awaited visitors when they toured the music room, complete with a historic piano. Auxiliary members led the children in lively Christmas carols before their visit with St. Nicholas.
Chairman Gina Butcher and co-chair Tammy Womack made sure each child attending received a treat bag filled with a coloring book, crayons, special dated bookmark and their own photograph made with Santa. Elves in colorful costumes assisted in the duties and added to the festive atmosphere. Wayne Alls and Randy Butcher gladly served time in the big red suit.
The Black House earned it’s name through ownership of Dr. Thomas Black, a general practitioner of medicine for the citizens of Warren County. It had remained a possession of the Black family for over 100 years, until being deeded to The Eagle Fund by the late Jean and Nancy Leonard, granddaughters of Dr. Black. The home is opened for tours at various times during the year.
Funds raised by the Junior Auxiliary Santa’s House will be used to support the organization’s many non-profit projects, such as: Coats for Kids, Jump mentoring program, children’s book drive, and other service projects focusing on children.