Many people miss the pageantry and decorations that surrounded the downtown J.L. Hudson Company Department Store during the holiday shopping season. Santa was there, as were window displays full of enticing children’s toys. The 12th floor auditorium was even converted to retail space for the overflowing toy department in December. These images give us a glimpse of the festivities as they were over a half-century ago. - D.S.
The Detroit Historical Museum is OPEN from 12 - 5 p.m. with FREE admission on Sunday, July 19 for the 2026 Concert of Colors and USO Car Club Lowrider Show.


