The Amalgamated Order of Real Bearded Santas (AORBS) had its beginnings in August 1994, ten real bearded Santas were selected to appear in a commercial. It was for the German mail order company, "OTTO." Ten Santas in one commercial? Only in Europe!

The filming lasted from 3:00 p.m. in the afternoon until 5:00 a.m. the next morning. There was a great deal of free time between takes and the Santas spent that time getting to know one another and become friends. One Santa took a few pictures of the group, which he offered to send to everyone later.

After many stories and much discussion, Santa Ed Murphy suggested that the group get together one day for lunch. The Santas decided that January would be a good time, as all of them would be very busy in the coming months, and especially in December. They finally chose to have a luncheon on the third Sunday in January.

They also discussed the need to have a name for their group. After kicking around a few names Santa Tom Hartsfield came up with "Amalgamated Order." He thought this would be a name that humorously hinted at a union or club. They then added "Real Bearded Santas," and it became their fun loving, official name.

They held their first luncheon, as planned, on the third Sunday in January, 1995. On 21 January 2007 they held their 13th annual gathering, now appropriately called the "Founders Luncheon." A second luncheon on the east coast, "Red Suit Roundtable" was held 11 February 2007 in Atlanta

In 1995 the organization began to expand its membership. Calls came in from other Santas who read or heard about the group in the media, or from friends. Plus, as the original ten travel, they invite other Santas they meet to join the organization.

In July 2006, AORBS held the first Discover Santa Convention. Almost 300 Santas and 200 Mrs. Clauses arrived in the city of Branson MO for a three day event that sat records for the number of Santas in one place. The AORBS Membership more than doubled following the media attention that this convention garnered worldwide.

There are now Santas listed with the AORBS from throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand.

The original ten Santas are: Joe Crozier, Harry Frazier, Tom Hartsfield, Bob Kokol, Joe Leavitt, Jim Lewis, Ed Murphy, Leonard Ray, Frank Turner, and Jay Wright. While some of the "Original Ten" founders have passed on and have now met the Original St. Nicholas, some still attend the annual meeting each year.

Discover Santa
The Amalgamated Order of Real Bearded Santas has changed their focus in their gatherings.
They are working to emphasize regional gatherings across the country, for a more accessible venue for all Santas.


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AORBS World Mission Statement

Devoted to Enriching your Family's Christmas, All Year Long
AORBS is an International, Fraternal Organization dedicated to training Santas and enhancing their portrayal of Santa Claus for the benefit of your family and community.

AORBS Member Santas continue to work through out the year, giving to charities in your community. Whether Santa visits your home, your church, your charitable organization, or your business, AORBS is there to ensure your time with Santa will be an occasion that will enrich your lives forever.

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AORBS Auxiliary
Recently, under the headship of President Nicholas, the Board of Directors voted to create auxiliaries under the AORBS Banner. These auxiliaries were created to include, Designer Bearded Santas, Mrs. Clauses and Elves and any Christmas Related People, Even Reindeer can join.

External links

Official website

Discover Santa! - International Convention