Local history aficionados, bibliophiles and friends of Pat Koch got the chance to net themselves a signed copy of Koch’s autobiography, Santa’s Daughter, at the Dale Library. Koch has certainly made a great many friends in her more than 90 years, and the small public library quickly filled as her extensive social circle as well as many admirers stopped by to say hello and secure Koch’s signature.
Koch kept a number of early arrivals entertained before the event began in earnest, sharing stories of her youthful hijinks, including hitching a ride on the local mail truck to attend local events. Santa’s Daughter has no shortage of stories from Koch’s long life in the community, from her hometown of Mariah Hill, to her part in the early development of Santa Claus Land and, of course, memories of her father, the iconic Santa Jim Yellig.
The first production run of Santa’s Daughter included 1,000 copies. Koch noted that she initially felt this figure to be quite too high, as the project was initially geared toward helping younger members of her family learn about their connection to the community.
“I just wrote this book for my kids,” she said. “I didn’t think many would come.”
The book signing last Monday put paid to any notion that interest would be minimal, however. Koch had little time for socializing as the crowd quickly stretched back to the door and beyond.
Proceeds from book sales go entirely to the Santa Claus Museum & Village, Koch’s latest passion project. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Santa Claus as a community, as well as keep the spirit of Christmas kindled throughout the year.
The Santa Claus Museum & Village are currently open Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The site is located just south of Holiday World at 69 State Road 245. For more information or to inquire about buying a copy of Santa’s Daughter, call the museum at 812-544-2434.
Story and Photos by Don Steen
