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Ghosts of Christmas Past, Courtesy of the State Archives

by John Morris in History on 12/16/2010
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Ivey-Taylor Department Store on Fayetteville St. in 1946

The folks at the North Carolina State Archives have recently launched a new online exhibit titled Carolina Christmas. Featuring historic holiday photos and documents from across the state, the exhibit gives a glimpse into the ghosts of Christmas past.

Ivey-Taylor Christmas window display

Not counting the photos taken by Goodnight Raleigh contributor Raleigh Boy in the 60s and 70s, the North Carolina State Archives has been the source for historic photos used to give context to our articles. By giving us insight to the past lives and history of the state, it is one of North Carolina’s finest treasures.

Christmas dance at St. Mary's School in Raleigh, 1937

The online Christmas exhibit is particularly interesting as it gives us a glimpse into how previous North Carolina residents celebrated the holiday–including the Civil War, World War I, and World War II.

Carolina Christmas is a collection of images, documents, and materials from the North Carolina States Archives that pertain to the Holiday season. Included in this exhibit are photographs, letters, diary entries, posters, greeting cards, recipes, and other documents.

1938 Raleigh Police Parade on Fayetteville Street

As someone who is very appreciative of the work done by archivists and librarians to digitally preserve our heritage, I am very thankful we have such a wonderful resource. I encourage you toÂ check out the exhibit for yourself.