On Dec. 3, the historic Sample McDougald House was fully decorated for the holidays and awaiting guests, who could take a tour. They could also sample hot cider and cookies, and listen to music by Tim Fisher, who just moved into town a year ago. He brought a couple guitars out to play some tunes suitable for the occasion. Ms. Christmas Joy, Mrs. Claus’ best friend in Pompano, otherwise known as Cherryl McDougald, was on-hand to read stories to children, as she does on Saturdays and at other events. She gave each child a carefully-selected ornament to take home. She lived in the home so she knows all its secrets.
“The McDougalds lived here for five decades. The Samples for two decades,” she told guests.
Inside, 30 quilts were hung carefully, provided by the Gold Coast Quilters Guild. Twelve Christmas trees awaited observation, decked out in holiday décor.
There was the extra large tree decorated with bubble lights from the 1940s. They bubble because the chemicals within their vacuum tubes are heated by the electricity and boil. Another tree had ornaments that were crafted in Japan in 1928 that were actually light bulbs. Nearby were treetops from the 1930s to 50s and a large, detailed Gingerbread house. The McDougald family had a white tree dedicated to all the teachers in the family. In the pantry sat what could be described as a “Charlie Brown” tree, a mere sprig with an ornament bending the sapling, but festive nonetheless. In the kitchen, a table and chairs from the 1800s sat, completely set up with dishes atop it, the kind most received when attending the movie theater back in the early 20th Century. A newly-placed kerosene stove sits nearby, probably from the 1930s. Randall Bishop, from Woodhouse, decorated a tree within including kitchen accessories he found at thrift stores. Every year, local artist Pat Anderson creates a hand-painted ornament and sells them at the house. This year, the ornament celebrated the 100th year anniversary. It was on display and another tree held ornaments from past years. Upstairs, the bridal room had a tree and a 1800s Singer sewing machine in the hall, complete with cover. In the children’s room is a large 1936 dollhouse and a pink tree filled with Barbies, as well as a tree decorated by girl scouts from St. Coleman’s in celebration of the 100th year of the girl scout cookie. In yet another room was a tree decorated by Bell Painting. These were just a few of the trees on display.
Save the date: On Dec. 15, they will have another holiday event, including the La Bri choir, Santa Claus on an old firetruck, Ms. Christmas Joy telling stories, heavy appetizers, open bar and more. It is $35, children under 12 free. Also, on Dec. 20, there is an open house with hot apple cider and cookies on the porch.
The Sample-McDougald House is located at 450 NE 10 St. in Pompano Beach. For more information, call 754-307-5446 or visit www.samplemcdougaldhouse.com.
More pictures coming soon.
