Celebrating Christmas in 1944

On Christmas morning 1944, Chuck and Jane Vogt bounded down the stairs of their small cottage at 5733 Oak Avenue to see what Santa had delivered. It had been a difficult month for the nation as American troops fought the Germans in the Battle of the Bulge. Their parents, Betty and Charles Vogt, likely listened to the radio each night with worry as news of the battle reached Irvington. Some local boys would not survive the onslaught including Robert Dickerson of 818 North Arlington Avenue. But that morning, for at least an hour or two, the Vogts like millions of others could set aside their concerns and spend time together.

Chuck and Betty Vogt opened presents on Christmas morning 1944, while their mother, Betty, looked on. The Vogts dwelled at 5733 Oak Avenue.  (Photo: Chuck Vogt)