This week’s From the Archives focuses on the Christmas charity and cheer spread around Grounds in the week leading up to winter break. From time honored traditions of Lighting of the Lawn to service organizations providing gifts and food to low-income households, University students have kept the true message of the holiday season alive — giving and joy. Together, the celebrations of the holidays and charitable endeavors of students highlight the enthusiastic and service-driven minds of the University, making the holidays a memorable time for all.
1950s
Dec. 9, 1952
“Christmas Drive Begins In Classes Tomorrow”
The Cavalier Christmas Fund Drive, or “Operation Goodwill,” aims to raise over $2,000 for the annual Christmas Party for the underserved community. Students visited morning classes to solicit their peers to donate for their cause with the goal of bringing “comfort, aid and happiness,” for local children and their families.
1960s
Dec. 13, 1963
“Santa’s Coming: Spirited Christmas Parties Planned”
By John Fletcher
Walking near Rugby Road, the Christmas lights and festive activities at fraternity houses remind many students of the excitement of the holidays. In 1963, fraternity houses celebrated Christmas by exchanging gifts, attending date formals, dressing up as Santa Clause and fraternizing with surrounding houses to spread Christmas cheer. The fraternities poured extensive time and effort into wrapping presents, raising money and practicing their Santa voices.
1970s
Dec. 9, 1975
“Yuletide spirits: another perspective”
By Jim Reagen
Photo by Beth Engelmenn
The holiday season is a time of joy for most University students, yet for some members of the Charlottesville community it can be difficult to maintain the same jolly spirit. Many lower income families struggle to provide a magical holiday experience for their children, but several organizations on Grounds provide services to help alleviate the stressors of the season, such as Madison House’s family sponsorship program and fraternity Christmas parties where members dressed as Santa Claus gift presents to local children. Madison House president urges students to keep this spirit of giving year-round.
1980s
Dec. 9, 1986
“Holiday ideas explored”
By Debbie Mogan
With finals approaching and winter break nearing, it is easy to ignore the hidden celebrations and festive activities across Grounds. Writer Debbie Mogan discusses the holiday discounts, activities and enthusiasm throughout the University, encouraging students to squeeze in as many cheerful experiences as possible.
1990s
Dec. 11, 1997
“Secret society sends University students on mysterious mission”
By Emily Heil
Art by Faten Kanaan
In the spirit of giving and secrecy, the 7 Society left notes for several students’ doors in the middle of the night instructing them to go to the nearest Toys R’ Us. In the seventh aisle the seven selected students found a gift certificate for purchasing gifts for under-resourced Charlottesville children. Their final instruction directed them to bring their haul of presents worth $377.77 to a toy drive at Room 26 East Lawn run by Seth Mitcho and involving several different organizations on Grounds.
2000s
Dec. 8, 2004
“Let there be light: Students discuss preparations and history of the annual Lighting of the Lawn”
By Teresa Wood
Photos by James Van Dyke
With the recent celebration of the 25th anniversary of Lighting of the Lawn, the preparations and history of a rich University tradition are essential in making the event a success. Preparations began as early as June with Lawn residents partnering with organizations to increase attendance, Madison House collecting materials and committee members working with University Facilities Management to ensure the countdown is perfect.
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