Every Christmas season, as the wintry winds sweep across the rugged coastline of New England, a heartwarming tradition unfolds, bringing joy and cheer to the families of lighthouse keepers who dwell in isolation, guarding the shores against the perils of the sea. This tradition, known affectionately as the "Flying Santa," traces its origins back over ninety years ago to the benevolent spirit of Captain William Wincapaw, a daring aviator from the coastal town of Friendship, Maine. Above photo Flying Santa plane flies past Boston Light in 1947.
In 1929, Captain Wincapaw, a seasoned pilot renowned for his aerial exploits, embarked on a mission of goodwill that would forever etch his name in the annals of New England folklore. Moved by deep admiration for the steadfast dedication of lighthouse keepers and their families, who braved the elements to ensure the safety of mariners, Captain Wincapaw resolved to express his gratitude in a tangible way.
William Wincapaw and his son Bill.
At the helm of his aircraft, laden with a cargo of newspapers, magazines, coffee, candy, and other comforting luxuries, Captain Wincapaw soared through the crisp December sky, making his way to the scattered lighthouses dotting the coastline of Penobscot Bay. With each carefully orchestrated descent, he showered the inhabitants below with tokens of appreciation, a gesture that warmed the hearts of those who often felt forgotten in their remote abodes.
The reception of Captain Wincapaw's modest gifts was nothing short of jubilant, igniting a spark of camaraderie and goodwill among the lighthouse communities. Encouraged by their heartfelt appreciation, Captain Wincapaw resolved to make the Flying Santa tradition an annual affair, expanding its reach to encompass an ever-growing number of lighthouses and Coast Guard stations along the rugged New England coast.
As the years passed, the Flying Santa tradition flourished under Captain Wincapaw's stewardship, becoming a cherished symbol of Christmas spirit and solidarity. Joined by his teenage son, Bill Jr., an aspiring pilot in his own right, Captain Wincapaw extended the reach of their airborne mission, bringing joy to an increasing number of remote outposts.
The spirit of generosity embodied by the Flying Santa tradition transcended the confines of a single individual, drawing others to join in its noble cause. Among those inspired by Captain Wincapaw's altruism was historian Edward Rowe Snow, whose passion for preserving maritime history found a perfect outlet in the Flying Santa tradition.
Snow, a dedicated high school teacher with a penchant for adventure, enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to participate in the annual gift deliveries, accompanying Captain Wincapaw on his airborne excursions and bringing his own unique brand of storytelling and goodwill to the lighthouse communities.
Edward Rowe Snow as the “Flying Santa”
In 1947, tragedy struck when Captain Wincapaw, while piloting his aircraft over Rockland Harbor, suffered a fatal heart attack, plunging into the icy waters below. The loss of this pioneering aviator cast a shadow over the Flying Santa tradition, but the flame of compassion he ignited continued to burn brightly in the hearts of those who had been touched by his generosity.
In the wake of Captain Wincapaw's untimely demise, Edward Rowe Snow stepped forward to carry on the legacy of the Flying Santa, becoming its stalwart champion and guardian. Undeterred by adversity, Snow expanded the scope of the gift deliveries, reaching out to an ever-expanding network of lighthouses and Coast Guard stations, spreading joy and goodwill in the spirit of the season.
Snow's dedication to the Flying Santa tradition knew no bounds, as he ventured beyond the confines of New England to bring Christmas cheer to far-flung outposts, from the tranquil shores of Bermuda to the remote expanse of Sable Island off the coast of Nova Scotia. With each journey, Snow reinforced the bonds of friendship and camaraderie that united the lighthouse communities in their shared mission of service.
For over four decades, Edward Rowe Snow remained the steadfast steward of the Flying Santa tradition, embodying the spirit of Christmas generosity and goodwill that had been the hallmark of Captain Wincapaw's vision. His tireless efforts ensured that the legacy of the Flying Santa endured, inspiring future generations to carry on the tradition of spreading joy and cheer to those who dwell in the loneliest outposts along the New England coast.
In 1982, Edward Rowe Snow passed away, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and camaraderie that had touched the lives of countless individuals across generations. Yet, his spirit lived on in the hearts of those who continued to uphold the Flying Santa tradition, preserving its time-honored rituals and spreading Christmas cheer to remote lighthouses and Coast Guard stations.
In the years that followed Snow's passing, the mantle of the Flying Santa tradition was passed on to new stewards, including the Hull Lifesaving Museum and the Friends of Flying Santa, who took up the torch with unwavering dedication and commitment. Today, the tradition continues to thrive, thanks to the efforts of volunteer pilots who donate their time and resources to ensure that the spirit of the Flying Santa lives on.
As Christmas approaches each year, the sound of rotor blades slicing through the chilly air heralds the arrival of the Flying Santa, bearing gifts of joy and goodwill to those who dwell in the remote reaches of New England's rugged coastline. Though the aircraft may have changed from the vintage biplanes of yesteryear to modern helicopters, the spirit of generosity and camaraderie that defines the Flying Santa tradition remains as timeless as the sea itself.
In a world often characterized by haste and indifference, the Flying Santa tradition serves as a poignant reminder of the power of compassion and community to transcend barriers and bring light to even the darkest corners of the human experience. As long as there are lighthouses standing sentinel along the rocky shores of New England, there will be a Flying Santa to deliver hope and happiness to those who call them home.
Edward Rowe Snow and wife Anna-Myrle preparing for a flight.
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