Trains all over the country were filled with servicemen and veterans, who were finally able to spend their first Christmas at home after many years away. As the Santa Fe trains rushed eastward, they slowed down at the curve on the northwest edge of Neosho Rapids, Kansas. The Irwin family, who lived in this small town, had already celebrated Christmas early due to their son Jack’s military duty.
Despite having to hold their celebration before the holiday, the Irwins’ joy was not diminished. They decided to have a festive Christmas dinner and exchange presents on December 9th, when all seven of their children and four grandchildren could gather together, along with two sons-in-law and Uncle Fred Andrews, a Navy brother of Mrs. Irwin. The only sad note was the absence of Lieut. Clyde Roush, Betty’s husband and the oldest Irwin daughter, who was reported missing over Japan while serving as a B-29 bombardier.
The Irwin family followed their usual traditions for the celebration. The men hunted for game while the women prepared the feast, including a plucked and ready goose. They sang carols around the piano and cut down a tree to bring home. On “Christmas Day,” they attended the Methodist Church, and Uncle Fred dressed up as Santa Claus to distribute gifts to the children, who were frightened by his appearance. In every detail, the Irwins’ Christmas celebration was a tribute to their cherished traditions.
