Christmas in Middleburg is proud to present our 2023 Christmas ornament honoring the late Emily Talbot Sharp. Em’s classic Christmas signs are hung throughout the streets of Middleburg every holiday season. These beautiful and timeless creations are a cherished tradition that promotes nostalgic holiday cheer for the entire community. Each sign was based on a classic holiday scene or created with a local theme in mind. In collaboration with Em’s family, we produced an ornament version of the Santa sign that hangs at the corner of Washington and Madison Street. The sign depicts a jolly Santa holding a list of Hill School students.
Em was born in Washington DC and attended the Potomac School and The Corcoran School of Art. She was Faculty Emeritus at The Hill School where she taught art from 1961 to 1971 and from 1978 to 1983. Em was beloved by all and her gentle nature and sense of humor instilled confidence and curiosity in her students. She adored animals and loved driving her VW beetle with Beatrice Potter characters painted on the doors. Em was a local character easily recognized by her uniform of blue jeans, an Irish sweater, a bandana in her back pocket, and her huge welcoming smile. We are truly thankful for Emily Talbot Sharp’s everlasting contributions to our community.
