Holder Children Get Their Letter to Santa Early, Dec. 3, 1923

Clyde, N.C., Dec. 1, 1923

Dear Santa Claus:

You may think I am writing you awfully soon, but you know how anxious little boys like me get. This is the first day of December, you must excuse me for writing so early, but I want you to be sure and have time to read my letter and notice just what I am asking for. You may remember my age. I am 7 years old and in the second grade.

I want you to bring me a pop gun that shoots a cork, a soft rubber ball, a good book I can read myself. I won’t ask you for much for I have a little brother and sister for you to come see. My name is Williard, I am just 3 years old, I want you to bring me a pop gun like Athol’s so we can go rabbit hunting with Daddy. A rubber ball and a knife with a chain, and bring Wilma a doll and a tea set. We all want some apples, oranges and candy.

Please don’t forget any little boy or girl anywhere, for they are awfully disappointed when you fail to come to see them. We will be good children till Christmas.

With a Merry Christmas,

Athol and Willard Holder

From the front page of the Carolina Mountaineer and Waynesville Courier, Monday, Dec. 3, 1923