2 photos worth 10,000 Bluffton words
Note: The Icon posted these two photo in past Decembers, but they are worthy of a re-post. Dennis Morrison shared the photos originally with the Icon.
It's December in downtown Bluffton in the early 1950s. There's Santa with a Santa Halloween mask stepping up to meet kids. In the next photo Bob Crow and Paul Steiner hold the PA system as Santa talks with kids.
We're pretty certain that Al McCluer is Santa, and we are going to make a stab on the ID of the kids on the platform. On the far left, it looks like Dan Lehman, then Francis Harkness, Judy Harness and Donna McClure. That's as far as we can go.
This scene must have been from a Bluffton Business Men's holiday promotion.
The Presbyterian Church manse is behind the setting. It's part of the parking lot today.
In the background is the original Citizens National Bank, prior to two modifications. Next door is Crow's 5 and 10, The Charles Company and Urich's IGA.
Viewer comments are welcome.

Stories Posted This Week
Wednesday, August 13, 2025
Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Monday, August 11, 2025
- Coletta Irene Mullenhour worked at M&R Plumbing and Heating
- New Findlay Community Orchestra invites string players
- Children's tryouts for ONU Holiday Spectacular on Sept. 7
- 2025 History Day showcases a love of Bluffton, fascination with trains
- Schumacher Homestead to be featured on WBGU travel program
- More about Bluffton and railroads
Sunday, August 10, 2025
Saturday, August 9, 2025
- Reminder of 1899 Depot move and refurbishment by Bluffton Sportsmen's Club
- JAMPD to retain Johnny Appleseed identity following poll
- Board of Elections lists November 2025 candidates for school board, township trustees and village council
- Bluffton chamber to host AI Lunch & Learn with Courtnee R. Morris
- Weekend Doctor: Family Estrangement on the Rise