GO Art! starts new monthly history lecture series

Posted 15 November 2025 at 6:27 pm

Derek Maxfield kicks off series with presentation on ‘Santa in the Making’

Press Release, Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council

BATAVIA – GO Art! is pleased to announce a new monthly history lecture series – “Uninhibited History.”

Promising a view of history that is “unvarnished, unconventional, and decidedly unromantic,” the series will be hosted by local author, historian, and master storyteller Derek D. Maxfield.

The first lecture will be Wednesday, December 17th at 6:30 p.m. Grab a drink in Tavern 2.o.1 and join us for… “Santa in the Making.”

While the myth of Santa Claus has its roots in many European legends, including Saint Nicholas, the truth is that Santa was born and reared in America in the 19th century. The story started with innocent attempts to amuse children but caught the national consciousness when retailers saw the opportunity to make Christmas into a cultural (and profitable) juggernaut. It is a fascinating story, but may not be suitable for children or “true believers.”

Admission is simply a suggested donation of $5 with all proceeds to benefit GO Art!