Santa's Village Lives On Through Facebook

For many, Santa's Village was a place that people fondly remember about their childhood. Now those memories can be relived through the power of Facebook.

Created by Glen Holland, Santa's Village in Scott's Valley was one of three parks that opened in California and was the second one of those three parks to open in 1957.

The Christmas-themed park had everything from a Santa and a Mrs. Claus to gnomes and elves who operated the rides. There was a petting zoo, gingerbread houses, a toy workshop and gift shops. There was even reindeer from Alaska to pull Santa's sleigh for more authenticity.

Other characters like Jack Pumpkin Head, the Easter Bunny, the Good Witch and characters from Alice in Wonderland also graced the park.

In 1977, Santa's Village filed for bankruptcy and a year later was changed to an arts and crafts fair called The Village. Unfortunately, The Village did not make enough money to sustain the park and it finally closed in 1979.

Marie Barry, a San Jose resident started a Facebook group entitled “Santa's Village Memories – Scotts Valley, California ” where people can share photos, stories, and memories, as well as reminisce with others who grew up going to the park.

She also visited the park at young age, and brings many loving memories of her childhood to Facebook.

“I remember with great anticipation of seeing where Santa lived as a very young child in the ‘60’s, driving with my parents in our Ford station wagon on Highway 17,” Barry said. “My first visit was in 1963. I loved everything about Santa’s Village, including the big colorful mushrooms, some of which can still be found locally today in various places.”

After getting some inspiration by viewing the Frontier Village, an amusement park that was in San Jose from 1961-1980, Facebook group, Barry decided to create the Santa's Village group.

Many people talk to others and share stories and pictures on the group whether it be their own photos from past visits or pictures they find online. Many get excited when new things like maps or postcards are found and added and express their fondness for the park and their childhood.

People who used to work at Santa's Village find others who worked either before or after them and they share stories and fond memories.

Despite the sadness many people had when the park was closed down, this group brings the fun and loving memories back to life again, especially for Barry, who was sad to see it close.

“I think it is important to keep local history alive and Facebook is the perfect place to facilitate that,” Barry said. “Santa’s Village was a part of so many fond memories, whether from visiting the park or having worked there. My group offers a place to share photos, videos, stories and memories from all perspectives. Glenn Holland would surely be happy to see that the magical
cherished memories of Santa’s Village live on today."

The Facebook group currently has 1,000 people and new people are joining every day.

“I hope this group will continue to grow and members will enjoy sharing it with friends, family and generations to come," Barry said.

To join the Santa's Village Facebook group, go to www.facebook.com/groups/59858968506/. For more information, contact Marie Barry at santasvillagememories@gmail.com.