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A holiday tradition at the Mill
By ELISE McKEOWN SKOLNICK
YOUNGSTOWN
Olde Fashioned Christmas at the Mill is a tradition at Lanterman’s Mill — and it’s become a tradition for many members of the community.
The annual event at the mill in Mill Creek MetroParks on the weekend after Thanksgiving offers live musical entertainment and the opportunity to watch artisans — such as a potter, tinsmith and woodcarver — demonstrate their crafts. Roasted chestnuts, hot chocolate, candy apples and other refreshments are available.
This year, for the first time, Eileen and Ed Rigby of Hubbard brought their granddaughter, Norah Baker, 4. She got to talk with Santa on Saturday about her Christmas wishes.
In keeping with the old-fashioned theme, Santa carried a staff and was dressed as Father Christmas.
Norah asked him for a telescope and toy cars. She wants to see Mars through the telescope, she said.
The event is an opportunity “to slow the pace down,” Eileen said. It’s nice to get away from the more commercial aspects of the holiday, she added.
Ed also enjoys seeing the workings of the mill. Eileen purchased ground cornmeal and buckwheat made at the mill.
The family brought hats and gloves to decorate the Giving Tree, as well.
The items on the tree will be given to children in need.
Vendors of hand-crafted items, such as jewelry, cat toys, photos and wood-carved utensils, are part of the event.
Linda Young of Austintown has participated as a vendor for years.
In the past, she offered slate paintings and face-painting for children.
This year, she sold hand-painted glasses.
After being painted, the glasses are baked in an oven so they can be hand-washed with warm water and soap without chipping the paint.
“I’ve always loved coming to the mill,” Young said. She also enjoys participating in the Christmas event as a vendor.
“I love it. I like seeing all the people that come in and looking at everybody else’s tables,” she said.
The event continues today from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.