8 Sydney Santas from the past

Sydney Santas weren’t always jolly. Many of them were eccentric, grumpy and others downright scary!

Christmas Day in Paddington, 1938

This toddler isn’t convinced there’s anything good under that hood.

This is just one of the many Santas of yesteryear that we found in the City of Sydney Archives and State Library of NSW Archives.

Credit: State Library of NSW (Home and Away - 18834)
Santa at Grace Bros. on Broadway, 10 November 1947

Who has the most impressive mane here – Santa or the rocking horse?

Credit: State Library of NSW (Home and Away – 25239)
David Jones Santa, 1952

Not sure how many candy canes were eaten, but this Santa is sure bringing some high energy to this encounter!

Credit: State Library of NSW (Australian Photographic Agency – 42054)
Santa at the radio station 2CH's Children's Christmas party at the Trocadero, 1936

Looking at the glum expression on this Santa’s face, we’re speculating that life in the red suit isn’t all fun and games.

Credit: State Library of NSW (Home and Away – 30091)
Santa Claus holding children at Unity Hall, Paddington, 1934

Paddington’s small children don’t look convinced that this Santa Claus is friend not foe at this event.

Credit: State Library of NSW (Home and Away – 4791)
Christmas show at Grace Bros. Broadway, 1939

Move over Santa – all we can see is the scary toy elf in this Christmas show.

Credit: State Library of NSW (Home and Away – 19939)
Kicking off the festive season, 2004

Sassy Santa crosses a traffic filled George Street.

Credit: City of Sydney Archives / A-01153132
Santa takes a break from bringing festive cheer, 2007

…. We have no words for this photo of Santa in front of the El-Alamein Fountain in Kings Cross. Except – Merry Christmas!

Credit: City of Sydney Archives / A-01154876