SIL - Nov / Dec 2021

has understandably undergone some
changes this past year, as people discovered
it was initially going to take
more time than they could offer.
Originally incorporated under
the name of Santa Claus House, the
group soon realized that there was
already one under that same name
located in North Pole, Alaska, but
after a few quick calls, the name was
changed to Santa Claus Haus, which
is very fitting in a predominantly
German-heritage community.
Even though there have been a
few minor changes as the plan took
shape, the group’s original mission
has pretty much stayed the same
from the beginning.
Santa explained, “Our Mission
Statement is simply this: ‘To ensure
that Santa is available to serve the
community year-round, to assist in
supporting other charities, especially
those that have to do with the health
and welfare of children; to assist
wherever welcomed and to enhance
other businesses and events in the
community.” He also added that ‘the
community” includes all of the surrounding
area.
“We want families and tourists
who visit to experience Santa here
in Santa Claus, Indiana, which is
also Santa’s first permanent home in
North America established between
1852-1856, depending on what records
you’re checking.”
“As a group, we would like everyone
to have the opportunity to in-
Santa shares a “nice list” award with a visitor.
“I’m also asked many times for things that Santa
just cannot do, so I suggest we pray about those
things. If they approve, we start praying right
there. Some people say I am the ‘Praying Santa,’
but I just believe that’s what Santa is about.”
- Santa
Pictured: (left to right) Chris Ambs, Vicky Ambs, Kathy Reinke, Santa, Susan Wagner, James Wagner,Alyssa Guth, Mrs. Claus, and Crystal Guth helped with the ribbon cutting on August 14.
Southern Indiana Living • Nov/Dec 2021 • 13