While there was no public ceremony to light the holiday decorations on Public Square this year, Times librarian Kelly Burdick searched the archives for photos of tree lightings and Christmas parades of the past. Some decorations have long been retired, while some look much the same today.
Local history: Looking back at holidays of the past
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J. J. Katzman, chairman of the chamber of commerce retail policy committee, is shown with microphone in hand as master of ceremonies of the Public Square Christmas tree lighting in 1951. Standing behind him is Mayor-elect John H. Newman while at the right is the First Methodist church choir, conducted by Mrs. Dorothy M. Swan. Watertown Daily Times
Mayor Henry A. Hudson flips the switch to turn on the Christmas decoration lights in Watertown’s business section in 1951. Watertown Daily Times
Among the new holiday decorations for the Watertown downtown section in 1962 was this 10-point star, 7-by-9 feet, in a wreath 11-by 11-feet. A breath of wind set the glittering star spinning on its axis and while revolving, aluminum reflectors created a kaleidoscope of color. The star was constructed of pierced aluminum, reinforced with steel rods. Watertown Daily Times
More than 3,000 people turned out for the first Christmas parade on Public Square in 1964. Just as he does today, Santa Claus rode on a Watertown fire engine. Watertown Daily Times
Even the Soldiers and Sailors Monument got festive lights and decorations in 1970. Members of the Watertown Fire Department are shown installing them here, shortly after they decorated the Christmas tree on Public Square. Watertown Daily Times
In 1972, Santa Claus was pulled through the parade route in a horse-drawn sleigh on wheels. Watertown Daily Times
Twenty members of the 655th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron stationed at Dry Hill Air Force base aided the city Department of Public Works crew in erecting three large Christmas candles on Public Square in 1976. The airmen finished just in time for the Christmas parade the following Sunday. Watertown Daily Times
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