Today I wrapped up my busy weekend at Historic Richmond Town. Kara and I were invited to attend the Christmas in Historic Richmond Town event, where they also had a ceremonial Christmas tree lighting. This was an all day event sponsored by the Women's Auxiliary of the Staten Island Historical Society. 
Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus
Signing autographs
With some colonial teens
Historic Richmond Town has been a landmark on Staten Island for fifty-two years. It is one of the top places to visit on Staten Island, especially if it is your first time in the borough. Its main purpose is to create opportunities for the public to explore the diversity of the American experience, especially that of Staten Island and its neighboring communities, from the colonial period to the present. Known as New York City's historic village and museum complex, it is comprised of more than twenty-five homes and public buildings. These buildings recreate the history of more than 300 years of continuous residence on Staten Island.
Before the tree lighting
With Ed Wiseman and David Picerno
In front of the "Traditional Tree"
Kara and I had a meet and greet session for about two hours in the Courthouse. The committee had set up a table for us to sign autographs for the patrons. We also visited some of the exhibits Historic Richmond Town had to offer. At 5 o'clock, the Courthouse bell rang to let people know it was time to light the tree. We congregated outside the Courthouse where we were greeted by carolers. Everyone followed David Picerno (Vice President of Historic Richmond Town) in a procession to the "Traditional Tree". We were welcomed by Ed Wiseman (Executive Director of Historic Richmond Town) as he introduced Kara and myself to the patrons. We even got to assist Mr. Wiseman in the lighting of the "Traditional Tree". The tree lite up in beautiful white lights as everyone cheered and applauded. It was a nice way to end a very long weekend.
