Monday, September 21, 2009

Yes, Virginia ...


As we head towards the first day of autumn tomorrow, thoughts of Christmas might not be on your mind, more or less Santa Claus. However, it was on this day in 1897 when an editorial was written to a little girl asking about Santa Claus. Virginia O'Hanlon was eight-years-old and beginning to doubt whether or not Santa Claus existed. Her father urged her to write to the New York Sun to find out. You can read all about it here.

In 1974, an animated film was made for television by Bill Melendez, who was known for his work on Peanuts specials. I grew up watching this cartoon. It was usually shown very early in the season, before Thanksgiving. I looked on You Tube, but was unable to find a clip from the video. I remember having a hard time finding it a few years back and ended up buying an old VHS, even though DVDs were all the rage. Of course, as soon as I bought it on VHS, it showed up as a special feature on another one of our Christmas DVDs. Regardless, it's always been a favorite. Even though I am no way ready for Christmas, other than my girls being home, it's interesting to note that the infamous editorial came out on September 21, 1897.

Does anyone else remember this old cartoon?

5 comments:

  1. I don't remember the cartoon, but I've always loved the story of Virginia and her letter to the editor...

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  2. I don't remember the cartoon either, but know the story.

    Nancy

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  3. I have never seen this cartoon but it looks like something I would love! I will have to keep my eye open for it!

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