The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

On December 5th, the eve to St. Nicholas Day, I would put my
shoes by the front door in hopes that St. Nicholas would leave me
a present as he passed by my home. I always remember getting a
small present that I wanted or best of all some money. It was
exciting to wake up and find what I thought then was enough money
to make me the richest girl in the world, a lot of pennies,
nickels, dimes, and quarters. My parents warned us that if we were
not good St. Nicholas would only leave a piece of straw or a stick.
I was lucky to have always received a present; however, I remember
my older sister getting only a stick in her shoe. I knew then that
my parents were telling us the absolute truth. I hope to continue
this Polish tradition someday with my children.

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; DETROIT

Date learned: 00-00-1970