Here’s what they say ...

“Christmas is a small community on the south shore of Lake Superior. Located in the center of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula water wonderland, Christmas is 4 miles west of Munising, on M-28.

“Bay Furnace Park in Christmas, (a National Forest Campground and picnic area), derived its name in 1870 when a huge stone blast furnace was built to make iron. In 1876 the town, also known as ‘Bay Furnace’, was destroyed by fire. The furnace still stands majestically, a Historical Monument overlooking Lake Superior and Grand Island.

“In 1938 Julius Thorson built a Toy Factory on (the) property which he had plotted. He named the place ‘CHRISTMAS’. The factory, destroyed by fire in 1940, was never rebuilt, but the community of Christmas continued to grow, becoming a popular summer resort area.

“On July 8, 1966, Christmas acquired its first Post Office and Christmas, Michigan was chosen as the issuing site for the First Day Cover of the l966 Christmas Stamp. Commemoration ceremonies were held on November 2, 1966.”