David Haskin showed up at the December 2021 board meeting of the Sanford Area Historical Society with an idea, a hand drawing, and a twinkle in his eye. Those who know Dave recognize that twinkle means something special is about to happen. He proposed the Society build a permanent Santa House on the grounds of the museum to expand the annual Santa Express event that is enjoyed by Sanford area children and their families. The project was approved by the board at the January 2022 meeting.
The 24 x 30-foot building is approximately the same size of the Olson General Store and located to the north, facing Smith Street. The board and batten siding style construction matches the Train Depot and Log Cabin Kitchen addition. The lumber is milled from local Michigan white pine logs that came from trees that are 80-160-years old.
Dave participated in the launching of Santa Express in partnership with the Sanford Area Chamber of Commerce that began in 2010 and the event is now attended by more than 500 children every year.
In addition to his big idea, Dave donated the use of his woodchipper, backhoe, SkyTrak telehandler, 33-foot man lift, sawmill and blades, trailers, truck, carpenter shop, miscellaneous tools, assorted materials, and supplies.
More importantly, Dave provided a spark of community spirit that has burst forth in an outpouring of volunteers and donors all asking, “how can I help?”
Volunteers can call the museum and leave a message at (989) 687-9048.
Donations for the continuing Santa House Project can be made online here:
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No donation is too small--you decide how much to help.
