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The Martin Mitchell Mansion, built in 1883 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is adorned in holiday finery, befitting a grand Victorian lady. Take a guided tour of the Mansion at 11AM., noon, 1PM and 2PM Saturday, Dec. 15, and at 1, 2 and 3PM Sunday, Dec. 16. Tickets are $7 per person; $5 for Naperville Heritage Society Sustaining Members. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the door of the Mansion, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville.
The original builders and owners, George and Sibelia Martin, were born in Scotland, and their families immigrated to America. The couple met and married in Naperville. During the holidays, they embraced their Scottish traditions in ritual and food. Curator of Research Bryan Ogg said that one of those Scottish traditions might have been first-footing, when the family would greet the first visitor to cross the threshold after midnight on Christmas Eve. Preferably, the first-footer would be a dark-haired man to ensure household prosperity and he would bring coal, cake, salt or whisky, representing fire, plenty and luxury. According to the Naperville Clarion newspaper, George Martin, “greatly delighted to entertain his friends in a most hospitable manner,” which no doubt included traditional holiday gatherings.
After touring the Mansion on Sunday, Dec. 16, visitors are invited to attend the History Speaks Lecture Series presentation of The Christmas Tree Ship from 4 to 5PM. Author Rochelle Pennington will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the ship’s mysterious disappearance on Nov. 22, 1912, with original photographs, artifacts and current underwater photos. Advance tickets are $6 for adults and $5 for students, youth and Naperville Heritage Society sustaining members. Tickets on the day of the presentation are $7 for adults, $6 for sustaining members, students and youth. For tickets, call (630) 420-6010.
Groups interested in touring the Mansion during the holiday season can make arrangements by calling (630) 420-6010 or visit www.napersettlement.org.
