It has been a Christmas tradition in Mt. Shasta for the Firemen's Association to construct a float and sleigh so that Santa Claus could parade around town and greet the children, talk with them, and give them a candy cane. Earl Bassett, a long time resident and past fireman, remembers a Santa float in 1944 and did not think there was one prior to World War II. Louie Melo, also a past fireman, recalls that the float was initiated prior to World War II. I can only say that the tradition started in the early 40s and only Santa Claus knows for sure when it truly began.

What we know is that the first Santa float was built by Mt. Shasta City Firemen and was powered by the 1915 Model T Ford fire truck called Lulu Belle. Plywood shaped like a sleigh was attached to both sides. The top had a dome shape and garland strings were draped around the float. Two wooden reindeer with real mounted buck heads (yes, real deer heads!!) were attached to the front. Their legs were made of fire hose and would flop as they traveled... For the rest of the story, visit Mt Shasta City's Website Here