Edwards’ Village is miniature Christmas wonderland
Each year, David and June Edwards' Christmas Village gets bigger and bigger.
What started as four pieces in their Robinsonville Road home living room in 1991 has grown to more than 450 pieces, and that doesn't include thousands of village residents. The village is a mixture of store-bought and handmade pieces – including an Amish farm – built by David.
He said they add as many as 20 new pieces each year. The village grew from a few shelves in the house to a display on the porch to a more permanent display in a large shed. Two years ago more space was added, and now it takes over the family's large garage during the season.
Last year, David built a miniature Rehoboth Beach street scene with The Boardwalk, Dolles, Thrasher's French Fries Kohr Brothers and even a beach with real waves. He said people will be amazed to actually smell popcorn and french fries with vinegar – thanks to scented candles – when they pass through the village.
This year, he is featuring a series of Christmas trees depicting religious scenes.
The display is a family affair. If you look closely, you can find pieces chronicling the history of the Edwards' family including a Philmont Boy Scout Ranch, which David – who was an Eagle Scout – attended as a youngster.
Each year, the couple hides a special Santa Claus in the large display. Children who find him are given a handmade keepsake button and can hide Santa again.
Each Christmas season the couple opens their village to the public. This year's open houses are from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday, Nov. 30, Saturday, Dec. 1, Friday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8. Another open house takes place from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 2.
Parking is in a vacant lot at the intersection of Plantation Road and Robinsonville Road with a short hay sleigh ride to the Edwards' home. Free refreshments are served.
Food donations are accepted to support the Jusst Sooup Ministry. Dale Dunning, ministry coordinator, will attend a meet and greet from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 1. Go to the website at edwardschristmasvillage.com to find other special events. Phone 645-9380 for more information.
