The first Santa Tony Noll visits an Edgewater child on Christmas Eve
One of the great traditions in Edgewater involves Santa hitching a ride with the Edgewater Fire Department on Christmas Eve. Santa rides around town on the fire truck and delivers presents to Edgewater children. Parents leave presents on the doorstep and Santa brings them into the kids.
This tradition began in 1934 when Tony Noll began dressing up as Santa and going around town in his own car. Then in 1952, he began hitching a ride on the fire truck and continued this tradition until 1959. Since then, Edgewater Fire Department and now the West Metro Fire Protection District members have continued this special tradition.
Here is a poem by fireman Fred Rudman titled “Warm Thoughts” about this great tradition:
Twas the night before Christmas and all through the town
Not an intersection was crowded
There was no one around
When up came a siren and commotion galore
And all thought that Santa must be next door
The fireman were out spreading joy once again
Letting all people know that they were their friend
Santa is coming!
Not through the chimney or roof did Santa roam
But on an old Dodge did he come to each home
Bringing good cheer and joy
And always some toys
Santa is there for all girls and boys
Thanks to all those who make it so bright
On this warm and wonderful Christmas Eve night
The picture above and historical details are from “Edgewater, Colorado: A Centennial Celebration” by Celora Jean Jones and Connie Jo Fox.
We’ve also compiled holiday memories from longtime Edgewater residents here.
Joel has been a resident of Edgewater, Colorado with his family since 2012. He is the Executive Director of local education nonprofit Edgewater Collective and Editor of the Edgewater Echo.
I would LOVE to know which firemen played Santa over the years