YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Today in Flashback, Brooke Testa, curatorial assistant for the Mahoning Valley Historical Society, tells us about the history and symbolism of Krampus, one of the largest folklore figures featured in the reception room of this year’s “Memories of Christmas Past” exhibit at Arms Family Museum.
Often viewed as frightening at first glance, Krampus has roots in pre-Germanic pagan traditions and was later incorporated into Christian Christmas lore as a counterpart to St. Nicholas.
“Memories of Christmas Past” is open through Dec. 31. Hours are noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Special Twilight Thursday hours are from noon to 7 p.m. Dec. 4, 11 and 18. Twilight Tuesday hours are noon to 7 p.m. Dec. 23.