The halls of the historic Hallstrom House echoed with the sounds of Swedish Christmas traditions, much like it did nearly a century ago when Ruth Hallstrom lived there as a child. The Indian River Historical Society began hosting a St. Lucia Celebration and Tree Lighting there several years ago in honor of the Hallstrom family’s Nordic heritage.
“We all feel so blessed that Ruth Hallstrom gave us this house,” said board member Mary Frances Womack. “A lot of people have no idea that there is this much history and this is the perfect opportunity for us to share it.”
Each year members decorate the home with traditional Scandinavian flare, scattering various miniature-themed trees throughout the house. Hearts, julbock or Yule Buck (goats), tomte (gnomes), vikings, stars and Dala horses added an authentic touch.
Docents explained that the use of stars serves as a reminder of the Star of Bethlehem, and straw that Jesus was born in a manger. The julbock and tomte stand guard over the house and are ready to deliver gifts on Christmas Eve.
A large tree in the living room was adorned with ornaments that once belonged to Ruth, while outside stood an authentic Florida Christmas sand pine.
“The sand pine is what the early settlers used for their Christmas tree,” explained County Historian Ruth Stanbridge, pointing to the Charlie Brown-like tree by the front porch.
Guests also enjoyed traditional Swedish sweets and coffee on the porch, just as Ruth was known to do during the holidays and family gatherings. Not surprisingly, there was a large contingent of Swedes present, sharing stories and recapturing a glimpse of memories from their youth.
The St. Lucia Celebration is traditionally held Dec. 13; the Winter Solstice and the shortest day of the year. St. Lucia, whose name means light, was martyred in the year 304 and monks brought the story along with Christianity to Sweden. According to lore, the young Christian girl had secretly brought food to persecuted Christians hiding in the catacombs under Rome, wearing candles on her head to light the way so her hands were free to carry the food.
Lucy, as she is also known, led the procession wearing a crown traditionally made of Lingonberry branches to symbolize new life in the midst of winter. As carols were sung, young girls dressed as tärnor (handmaidens), trailed behind in white gowns carrying candles. The boys were dressed as Stjärngossar (star boys), tomtenissar (Santa’s elves) and gingerbread men.
The group gathered on the front porch for the lighting of the tree, further banishing the dark of winter and bringing light to the people. One couldn’t help but feel a nod of approval from Ruth that the house was once again full of light and holiday cheer.
Axel Hallstrom was recognized for his contributions as a pineapple farmer and later in the citrus industry. It is still obvious throughout the historic home that the family’s deeply rooted Swedish culture was an integral part of their daily life. The Hallstrom Farmstead, which includes the 1918 home and outbuildings on a five-acre parcel, is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and is open to the public. For information, visit IRCHistorical.org.
