The arrival of the Dutch “St. Nicholas” in Jamaica brought a unique cultural celebration to the local Dutch community. Flying in from Spain and continuing a centuries-old tradition, St. Nicholas, accompanied by his loyal helper Peter, delighted children at a birthday party in his honour. The event showcased Dutch customs, from St. Nicholas’s arrival on horseback to the reading of his “big book” recounting each child’s behaviour. 

Published Wednesday, December 6, 1967

 
Dutch Santa Claus at party

 
THE DUTCH “St. Nicholas” (Santa Claus) arrived by a KLM flight at Palisadoes Airport yesterday afternoon from Spain. He was met by the Netherlands Ambassador, Mr. M.P. Gorsira, and the first secretary at the Embassy, Mr. Von Hattum.
  
Later, “St. Nicholas” arrived in traditional manner (on horseback) at a party held in honour of his birthday for the children of the Dutch community of Jamaica. He was accompanied by his faithful helper “Peter”, who traditionally, takes care of good and bad children alike.
  
In Holland, St. Nicholas’s birthday is celebrated on December 5. On the eve of this day, Dutch children leave their shoes by the chimney, filled with food for the saint’s horse, and he, in turn, leaves them presents.
  
The original Dutch St. Nicholas is thought to have been a Bishop Nicholas (later canonised), who lived first in Asia Minor and then in Spain. Peter may have been a Moorish helper. St. Nicholas is traditionally very old, with failing eyesight, hearing and memory, and Peter accompanies him everywhere, helping the old saint.
  
At the party yesterday, “St. Nicholas” took each child onto his lap, and before giving him or her a present, read out of his large book the good and bad points about the child’s behavior during the past year. Unlike our Santa Clause, St. Nicholas hails from a palace in Madrid.

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