In the late 1980s, a group of neighbors in Moorhead, Minnesota, transformed their community into a vibrant Dickens village, celebrating the holiday spirit in a unique way. From 1989 to 1999, the 3200-3300 block of Rivershore Drive featured life-sized cutouts that depicted scenes from Charles Dickens’ classic tale, “A Christmas Carol.” This initiative not only brightened the streets with festive lights but also brought the community together during a time of loss.
The inspiration for the Dickens-themed project emerged in January 1989, shortly after the passing of **Bernice Binford’s** husband, **Howard**, who died from cancer at the age of 61. According to neighbor **Byron Zebley**, the idea to uplift Bernice came from a desire to create something joyful in the wake of her loss. “So we came up with the idea of decorating our yards as a neighborhood that Christmas,” Zebley recalled.
Creating a Community Tradition
The project quickly evolved into a collaborative effort that combined art, friendship, and community spirit. Each yard represented a chapter of “A Christmas Carol,” with wooden cutouts of characters such as Scrooge and Tiny Tim, along with Victorian storefronts. “We had pamphlets and catalogs showing the Dickens era,” Zebley explained, highlighting how the neighbors used their skills to contribute.
Neighbors gathered for painting parties, often sharing a pot of chili as they worked. **Marty Kranzler**, a long-time resident, remembered how they decorated their yard with whimsical pieces, including a “Rest in Peace, Tiny Tim” display. Each year, the number of characters and buildings grew, creating a walk-through storybook experience for visitors.
As word spread about the enchanting display, it quickly became a must-see holiday attraction. “Hey, if you’re taking a drive to look at Christmas lights, you gotta go see the Dickens display in Moorhead!” became a common refrain. The neighborhood was frequently featured in local media as a key destination for Christmas lights, drawing visitors from far and wide.
A Lasting Impact
The festive tradition brought joy not only to the residents but also to the many families who ventured to Rivershore Drive. **Cindy Swenson**, who moved to the neighborhood in 1993, recalled how the streets would fill with traffic as families sought to experience the holiday magic. “The closer it got to Christmas, it would be bumper to bumper,” she said, noting that the view from their window became a cherished entertainment.
As the years passed, the project presented challenges. The community had to contend with harsh winter conditions and the infamous floods of 1996-1997, which damaged some of the decorations. Neighbors found themselves faced with increased maintenance needs as time went on. Despite these hurdles, the spirit of the Dickens village persisted, illuminating the streets with warmth and joy.
Although the tradition gradually faded around the turn of the millennium, its legacy remains strong. “It really showed that when part of a neighborhood is invested in something, it has a ripple effect,” Bob Swenson, Cindy’s husband, reflected. “It wasn’t just about decorations. It brought light and excitement to the whole street.”
The Dickens village not only enriched the holiday experience for those living on Rivershore Drive but also fostered connections among neighbors, bridging differences and uniting them through shared efforts. **Jane Skunberg**, Bernice’s niece, fondly remembered how the project brought joy to her aunt, especially during the first Christmas without Howard. “She looked forward to it every year. It was just nice to sit and watch the people drive by,” she said.
In revisiting this heartwarming tradition, it is clear that the Moorhead Dickens village was more than a seasonal display; it was a testament to community resilience, kindness, and the enduring spirit of togetherness.
