Ferndale Celebrates Tradition with Tree Lighting and Memories

On December 7, 2023, the small town of Ferndale, California, will host its annual Hospitality Night, marking the beginning of the festive season. This event, which attracts both locals and visitors, features merchants adorned with holiday decorations and offering various treats for attendees. In a community of approximately 1,500 residents, food plays a crucial role in fostering connection and celebration, with local traditions running deep.

The history of Ferndale is intertwined with the stories of its residents, many of whom have left lasting legacies through their culinary skills. Noteworthy is the reverence surrounding recipes, which are often treated as sacred. Upon the passing of culinary figures, their unique recipes are frequently retired, creating an air of nostalgia and respect for the past.

Community Remembers a Historic Date

The tree lighting ceremony, scheduled for the evening of December 7, will resonate with those who remember the significance of this date. Eighty-four years ago, on December 7, 1941, the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor compelled local fire chief Norm Clough to pause holiday preparations. As he directed his crew to remove the lights from the town’s Christmas tree, the community shared a collective uncertainty about the future, unaware of the war that would soon change their lives.

The tree would not be lit again until December 1945, marking a poignant moment in Ferndale’s history. The town’s residents, including Clough and his crew, acted with instinct, fully aware of the need to honor the gravity of the situation. Their actions were driven by respect, illustrating a strong sense of community spirit that transcended the need for discussion or consensus.

This year, as residents gather for the lighting of the tree, the event is expected to include a program featuring reflections on the past. However, the integration of political and religious undertones in the ceremony may lead to mixed reactions among attendees. Some may feel compelled to leave early rather than engage with what they perceive as divisive commentary.

Embracing the Spirit of the Season

Wendy Reid Crisp Lestina, a native of Ferndale and former local newspaper columnist, has voiced her thoughts on the importance of preserving the event’s spirit. She suggests that the focus should remain on the festive atmosphere, encouraging a return to a simpler celebration. “I propose that we prioritize Christmas carols, a warm welcome, and gratitude towards the fire department,” she notes. “Let the anticipation and joy of the lights symbolize the original meaning of the season.”

The tree lighting is not only a celebration of community but also a reminder of the resilience and unity that has defined Ferndale through the years. Local traditions have shaped the town’s identity, creating bonds that endure through generations. As the evening draws near, the anticipation builds, inviting both reflection and celebration among the residents.

For those interested in further exploring Ferndale’s rich history, Lestina’s work is available through the Ferndale Museum and includes insights into significant events such as the tree lighting ceremony of 1941, which is featured in the award-winning World War II film “Letters Home.”

This year, as lights illuminate the tree on Main Street, Ferndale will not only celebrate the holiday season but also honor the stories and memories that have shaped its community.