Holiday tour promotes local history

Residents, visitors can tour historic East High Street sites.

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By Matt Sanctis, Staff Writer 9:56 PM Friday, November 25, 2011

SPRINGFIELD — Despite local architecture dating back more than 100 years, many residents pass by some of Springfield’s most historic structures with barely a glance.

Kevin Rose is hoping this year’s History, Hymns and Holly tour will be a chance for visitors to slow down a bit and take a closer look at what the city has to offer.

The tour, now entering its ninth year, will feature the Westcott House, the Greek Orthodox Church and Fifth Lutheran Church. After purchasing a ticket, residents will be able to visit all three sites while local musicians perform holiday hymns. The tour will end at the Westcott House, where visitors can grab a snack or enjoy a cash bar. Proceeds from the tour will benefit the Springfield Preservation Alliance.

Rose noted for many residents, there aren’t a lot of other opportunities to visit some of the sites on the tour.

“It’s a great opportunity for people to get inside the buildings that they rarely see,” Rose said.

The Rev. Carol Gesalman, of Fifth Lutheran Church, said she hopes the tour draws more residents to the church to learn more of its history. She said the structure was originally built before the Westcott House and includes decades-old stained glass windows, among other features.

“It’s nice to be able to share with the community the beauty of the building,” Gesalman said.

Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0355.

If you go

What: History, Hymns and Holly 2011

When: 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4

Cost: $10 for adults, $ 8 for members of the Springfield Preservation Alliance and $5 for students. Tickets are available at Fred E. Peters and Sons, 411 E. Main St., and online at www.restorespringfield.org.

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