A Visit to The Santa Claus Museum in Columbus, Texas | #SantaClaus #Christmas

We stopped by The Santa Claus Museum in Columbus, Texas during the Labor Day Weekend. This place has an amazing story.

Our story unfolds in the year 1990 when the doors of The Santa Claus Museum first opened. A generous gift to the community from Mrs. Laura Ann Rau, a devoted member of the Columbus Historical Preservation Trust, Inc.

At the heart of this museum lies the Hopkins Collection. Mary Elizabeth Youens Hopkins, a lifelong Santa enthusiast, gathered a remarkable collection spanning decades. From Santas crafted in cast iron to china, fabric, and more, her collection became a beacon of holiday cheer.

Among these treasures is an almost life-sized Santa, a local legend from the Priesmeyer Department Store in Garwood. The collection also boasts Duncan Royale Santas from across the globe, artwork by Norman Rockwell and Thomas Nast, and a complete set of Haddon Sundblom Coca-Cola Santas.

Mrs. Hopkins' passion and creativity knew no bounds. Even her personal needlepoint pieces, inspired by holiday artwork and magazine covers, found a cherished place within the museum. Her collection, a tribute to the magic of Santa, was the spark that ignited this museum's creation.

A second room in the museum houses the Luman Collection, a testament to the globetrotting adventures of Elaine and Merrill Luman. Russian nesting Santas and an Asian Santa interpretation are just a glimpse into their unique and diverse collection.

Lladró ceramic Santas and Santas in sleighs, ready to deliver gifts, add a global touch to their collection. It's complemented by Santa socks, matchsticks, vintage celluloid, and mechanically-animated Santas.

The Hubenaks, enchanted by Columbus' charm, joined the Santa collector's club in the late '90s. Over two decades, their collection grew to over 400 Santa figurines, dolls, and other collectibles.

Neva Lou and Al Hubenak's generous donation expanded the museum's offerings, bringing even more joy to visitors seeking the Christmas spirit.

Today, The Santa Claus Museum in Columbus, Texas stands as a testament to the love and dedication of those who cherish the magic of Santa Claus. This enchanting place continues to spread warmth, joy, and the spirit of giving all year round.

Visit The Santa Claus Museum
604 Washington St.
Columbus, TX 78934

Hours

Fridays, January through November
12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Fridays in December
12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Saturdays in December
11:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Admission is $5 per person (children under 5 are free) Admission in December is free.

For dates outside of the above, contact us to make an appointment.

Contact

979-732-5135
santa@santamuseum.org