In 1949, the Merchants Bureau of the Pottsville Chamber of Commerce sponsored the arrival of Santa Claus, by helicopter, at the Pottsville Bus Terminal. This was announced in a full page ad appearing in the Pottsville Republican, November 22, 1949. Following the landing, a parade including bands, majorettes, and floats began. Also included were six ponies pulling Santa’s mailbox and children were invited to bring letters. Another feature was the Santa Claus House. All of this was designed to promote seasonal shopping in Pottsville, which had the largest stores in Schuylkill County.
The helicopter arrival was unique for the area. In other places Santa may have arrived on a float, on a fire engine, or on a horse drawn cart. The accompanying parade was almost always a feature.
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Ad from Newspapers.com.
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