The Christmas Tree Ship at National Museum of the Great Lakes

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

The story of the ship’s history and captain is the inspiration behind the National Museum of the Great Lakes annual Community Giveback Event—The Christmas Tree Ship, presented by UToledo Health and supported by the Port of Monroe. Enjoy free museum admission all day long and make memories that last a lifetime! Watch 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.

At 11 am, in collaboration with the East Toledo community, we encourage visitors to watch the 52nd Annual East Toledo Holiday Parade beginning at 11 a.m. The parade will begin at South Ravine Parkway and travel along East Broadway, Starr Avenue and Main Street, before ending at Metroparks Toledo’s Glass City Enrichment Center.