Drinkard adds to Christmas village collection each year

Helen Drinkard's lighted Christmas village is displayed in her home each year, right after Thanksgiving.
Helen Drinkard's lighted Christmas village is displayed in her home each year, right after Thanksgiving.

About 30 years ago, a shopping trip with a friend resulted in the beginning of a Christmas tradition for Helen Drinkard, California. It was the start of her very own lighted Christmas village.

photo

Brandy Early and Rick Shumate

"My friend and I each bought a church, which became the centerpiece for my village," Drinkard said. "It was on sale for $40, which was a really good deal. After that, I just kept going, hitting bargains the day after Christmas to add to my collection each year."

Today Drinkard's village of churches and houses spans about 5-feet long and 4-feet wide, and consists of 28 buildings. Also included is a plaque painted with a scene of Santa and his sleigh that serves as a backdrop for the village.

photo

Russell Haynes and Max Smith

For more of this story check out the Dec. 28 issue of the California Democrat.