Saturday, December 2, 2023 | 1 p.m.

Make a memory that of a lifetime by watching Santa arrive at the museum’s dock aboard a Geo. Gradel Co. tugboat delivering Christmas Trees into your hands or the hands of someone in need.

On November 23, 1912, the schooner Rouse Simmons sank while carrying Christmas trees. Known as the Christmas Tree Ship, her captain, Herman E. Schuenemann (a.k.a. “Captain Santa”), was known for giving trees to families in need.

This is the inspiration behind the National Museum of the Great Lakes annual Community Giveback Event—The Christmas Tree Ship. This year, thanks to the generosity of The University of Toledo Medical Center, museum admission will be FREE to visitors all day long! Make a memory to last a lifetime by watching Santa arrive at the museum’s dock aboard a Geo. Gradel Co. tugboat delivering a Christmas Tree into your hands or the hands of someone in need.

WHAT TO EXPECT: Leading up to the Community Giveback Day

• • TUESDAY, NOV. 28: Last Day to purchase a Christmas Tree for yourself or a family in need.
  • SUPPORT HOLIDAY NEEDS: The holidays are a time for giving! Donate to provide a family with a gift card to help support holiday needs. Plus, for every holiday support donation, UTMC will match your gift with a healthy hygiene kit for community members in need.