MATTAPOISETT — On an unusually warm Saturday afternoon in December, tri-town residents were treated to crystal clear views at the top of Neds Point Lighthouse and a jolly visit from Santa Claus. 

This weekend, families and friends came together on the Mattapoisett coast to celebrate the holidays and the historic lighthouse. Hosted by the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 6-3, the event kicked off with a tour and a brief history lesson of Neds Point. 

According to Flotilla member William Cody, the lighthouse was originally built in 1838 and is made out of stones from the nearby beaches. “It’s a pile of rocks, literally,” said Cody. 

The outside of the building, he said, is covered in a veneer to keep out the weather and the stairs are made up of hand-cut stones.

Visitors who climbed up those stairs, squeezed through the small opening at the top, and stood up on the gallery got a breathtaking chance to look up and down the Mattapoisett shores. 

As the sun began to set, and the lighthouse tours came to an end, one familiar face came to join in on the celebration. Taking his seat inside of the lighthouse, Santa Claus made way for a line of eager children who could not wait any longer to tell him what they wanted for Christmas. 

One of the first in line, five-year-old James Schwebach  was jumping at the chance to tell Santa about the most important gifts he wants for Christmas this year — “Hot Wheels, a football, and a red drone.”

Hot chocolate and cider were passed out, complimented by the minty flavor of candy canes. As the line shrunk and daylight vanished, the Christmas lights adorning the lighthouse added a pop of color to the night sky. 

“This is the first time we’ve done something like this for Christmas,” said Cody. “So far, I think it has gone pretty well too.”