On Christmas Eve following a long-established tradition, children of Pennsylvania  German families would leave a plate on the table hoping that it would be filled with nuts, an apple or an orange, and clear toy candy. The candy, often made in whimsical shapes such as farm animals, trains, or Father Christmas were created from a solution of corn syrup (alternately barley water), sugar, and water. Yellow, red or green food coloring were often used to enhance the candy’s appeal.

This lecture, given by local historian Rich Nornhold, will address the tradition of clear candy making with a look at some of the metal molds that were used.  He will have samples of the candy for the guests  to try and will encourage folks to make their own clear candy. He will bring all the  supplies necessary to make the candy.