Montrose - A new thing was our Christmas tree. Brother Davis's family, united now with Wm. L. Posts, proposed a Christmas tree to be with us. Nothing was talked of for days before the time and all were gathering together something nice and handsome for the tree. Silver napkin rings, silver fruit knives, gold thimbles, China of various devices and books were sent for and laid aside, while fingers were busy in making satin cushions or some pretty present to be displayed on the tree. Monday a handsome evergreen tree was placed in our parlor by Billy Smith, their faithful servant and Maria, Kate and I soon fastened six-dozen wax tapers of all colors among its branches. Early on Tuesday the trimming commenced. Shiny Cornucopias filled with the nicest drops depended from every branch, while China bases, China candlesticks, the silver knives, gold rings, gold pearl studs, paper folders and pearl card case; one handsome gold watch in the center for-nobody knew: A thousand little ornaments of various kinds glittered among the green leaves. At the base were arranged handsome books, forming a pedestal of learning, making a tree of knowledge bearing precious fruits. On one side was a handsome work basket stand purchased by Grandpa in Binghamton for Kate, hung with embroidered merino scarfs and on the other the little bureau and China set of dear little Hettie, while the large Girandoles placed in front added to the elegance of the tree. All the visitors said it was the handsomest Christmas tree they had ever seen. And In the evening all assembled and after partaking of a Christmas supper, turkey oysters etc., the tapers were lighted, the lamps, sperm candles and the tree was gorgeously beautiful. Leonard, Wm. and the Doctor were authorized to distribute. They commenced and each one received their gifts with joyous exclamations. A gold thimble from Uncle Leonard & Lydia to Sarah Lathrop, one from L. Searle to his wife. A gold watch from Dudson Lathrop to his beloved wife. A silver napkin ring from Dud & Sarah to Aunt Lydia, one from Wm. & Mary to Leonard, one from Leonard & Lydia to Father. A pearl card case from Uncle Gord to Kate, a silver fruit knife from Dud & Sarah to their mother, one from Aunt Lydia to Victoria, one from Dimock to Sue, one from Sarah to Dud, one from father & mother to Kate, one from Maria to Gord. AND From the diary of Lydia Dimock Searle; Montrose, Pa. December 1855. [Lydia Dimock Searle was the daughter of Elder Davis Dimock, the sole pastor of the Bridgewater Baptist Church from its organization in 1808 to 1835. Elder Dimock retired in 1847. Lydia was the wife of Leonard Searle of Montrose. The Historical Society is in possession of 11 of Lydia's diaries].