Charles W. Howard
Charles W. Howard has touched the lives of more people than any other Santa. As Santa in the Macy's Parade from 1948 to 1965, he was seen by millions. However, that was just a small part of him spreading smiles to children of all ages.
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Mr. Howard started portraying Santa at a young age. He first donned the suit for a school play. This must have had an impact on him as he continued to portray the jolly elf as a young adult. From his hometown of Albion to Rochester and Buffalo New York, he appeared as a department store Santa. It was at this time that Mr. Howard started to research everything he could about Santa Claus. He wanted to understand the magical image he was portraying. As his knowledge and experience increased, he soon sought out by other stores looking for a well versed Santa. This lead the way to what
would soon become his legacy... The Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School.
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In 1937, the school opened. The subjects consisted of proper dress, dancing, and of course the history of Santa. Over the years, thousand came to his school to learn from the legend himself. Mr. Howard taught the school up until he died in 1966. The school continues today in Midland, Michigan.
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The students who have attended his school go on to help spread the joy and happiness that Santa Claus represents to millions of families around the world. Charles W. Howard himself said it best:
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On February 29th, 2018, the State Senate of New York issued a formal Proclamation recognizing and honoring the extraordinary life Charles W. Howard had lived. Phillip L. Wenz, noted Santa Historian and member of The Santa CLaus Hall of Fame, presented this proclamation to Mr. Howard's family at a ceremony held in Albion, New York.
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"They err who think Santa Claus enters through the chimney. He enters through the heart."
