Oswego Museum Hosts Model Train Village During Christmas At Sea

The H. Lee White Maritime Museum is welcoming families and model train fans to its Christmas at Sea Open House today, offering a full afternoon of holiday programming and community activity. The centerpiece for many visitors is a model train village on display under a ten foot high Christmas tree, courtesy of the Oswego Valley Railroad Association, running throughout the open house from 1 to 4 30 p.m.

Santa Claus is scheduled to arrive at 2 p.m. by U.S. Coast Guard cutter, creating a nautical twist on a traditional holiday visit. While children wait to see Santa, the museum is staging crafts and story sessions designed for younger attendees. Museum volunteers and association members are on hand to operate layouts and answer questions about the trains and model making.

Maritime themed holiday trees fill the museum galleries, and volunteers are offering homemade cookies and punch to visitors. The combination of boats and trains reflects the museum mission and provides a lively, hands on seasonal experience that engages multiple generations. Local model railroaders gain visibility and new contacts, younger visitors get a tactile introduction to layouts and scenery, and families looking for accessible holiday programming can find a low cost afternoon activity.

Practical details matter for planning a visit. The open house runs until 4 30 p.m., and the Santa arrival at 2 p.m. is a focal moment for families to time their visit. Museum staff and volunteers are available throughout the afternoon to guide visitors to the train village, craft tables, and story time areas.

The event highlights how community organizations can collaborate around seasonal programming to draw people into cultural institutions. The model train village and the Oswego Valley Railroad Association presence offer a welcoming place to explore model railroading, learn from experienced builders, and share a festive afternoon at the museum.