“How Christmas Started and Surged” will be the topic explored at the 1 p.m. Friday, December 19 meeting of Friends of Eufaula Memorial library.

How can Odin, the Norse God of wisdom, poetry, agriculture, healing, death, and war possibly be connected to a holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus?

What’s the significance of a Christmas yule log?

Why are evergreen trees decorated at Christmastime?

Where did Santa really come from?

Did pagans celebrate Christmas before Christians did? Popular historian Roger Thompson will have the answer to these and many other questions as he presents his colorful slide show in the library’s Follansbee Room.

Recently retired from teaching history at Eufaula High School, Thompson is as well known for traveling as he is for his expertise on the past. Both his traveling and extensive research contribute to his unique approach to the Christmas topic. The Friends’ meeting on December 19 is open to the public—reservations are not necessary. Light refreshments will be served.

Thompson’s will be the last of twelve 2025 inspiring programs arranged by the Friends for Eufaula’s enlightenment. The roster of upcoming 2026 programs will be available, with Thompson scheduled to speak on “How the Bunny Hopped Into Easter” on March 20.

Membership forms will be available for anyone desiring to join and participate in helping the Friends enhance the cultural landscape of the community.