It’s Christmastime in the 1960s
Butler city sidewalks were busy, dressed in holiday style at the end of the 1960s. The glittering department stores, booming parades, sparkling snow and children’s ringing laughter filled the streets of downtown, in ways they still do today.
In this shot, published in December 1969, shoppers bustle amid a recent snowfall. The paper’s caption reminds shoppers that there’s only one more week left to purchase Christmas gifts.
Though Main Street isn’t home to a Woolworth’s department store anymore, downtown still boasts great opportunities to knock some things off your gift list.
These December 1968 photos show a children’s perspective on the spirit of Christmas. From assuring Santa they’ve been good all year to trying out toys in department stores, these youngsters are emulated in today’s children: hopeful and cheerful all holiday season.
Butler’s Spirit of Christmas Parade is a longstanding tradition in the county. This photo from November 1968 could have been taken yesterday, with the packed sidewalks, floats and bands looking similar to the 2022 parade last month.
It goes to show you, though times change, Christmas in Butler remains an important time for giving, merriment and a return to child-like wonder.
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