Delaware at Christmas by Dave Tabler is a rich and surprising exploration of how Delawareans have celebrated the holiday season across four centuries. From colonial era customs brought by Swedish, Dutch, and English settlers to modern multicultural observances, this book blends history, folklore, and festive tradition into a vivid portrait of Christmas in the First State.
Tabler brings a storyteller’s eye to meticulous research, uncovering stories that might otherwise have been lost to time. Readers will discover the origins of outdoor Christmas decorations, the rise of the state’s holly wreath industry, and the stories behind local favorites like eggnog, wassail, and plum pudding. The book shines a light on forgotten practices, from mumming parades and house tours to the music of handbell choirs and the enduring power of church lovefeasts.
What sets Delaware at Christmas apart is its commitment to telling a complete story. Tabler gives voice to the holiday experiences of Black Delawareans during the antebellum period, alongside the customs brought by Irish, Italian, Polish, and Hispanic communities who shaped the state’s evolving identity. This inclusive approach ensures that the portrait of Christmas in Delaware is not a single story but a tapestry of traditions woven together over generations.
The structure of the book invites readers to explore at their own pace. Individual chapters can be read as standalone explorations of specific traditions, but together they build a cohesive narrative about how holidays evolve, how communities preserve their heritage, and how new arrivals enrich the cultural landscape. Tabler’s prose is accessible without sacrificing depth, making the book suitable for history enthusiasts and casual readers alike.
For readers who enjoy regional history, holiday traditions, and works that celebrate the rich tapestry of American cultural heritage, Delaware at Christmas is an excellent choice. It is the kind of work that deserves a much wider readership and with the right exposure it will find the audience it truly deserves.