76 Years Ago, ‘Deck Us All With Boston’…

Legendary Pogo Carol: 76 Years of Decking the Swamp

It’s that festive time again when comic fans huddle around for the annual Comics Should Be Good Advent Calendar. This year marks 76 years since the whimsical comic strip Pogo first sang "Deck Us All With Boston Charlie." Created by the genius Walt Kelly, Pogo remains a perennial favorite, celebrated in our Advent Calendar showcasing classic comic strip Christmas stories.

Every day until Christmas Eve, a new treat emerges from the Advent Calendar, revealing a piece of our cherished comic history. In 2024, the calendar illustration features Santa favoring Snoopy over Charlie Brown — a quirky nod to unexpected gift recipients. Nick Perks designed this delightful piece, capturing the whimsical spirit that resonates with Pogo’s legacy.

What Made Pogo an All-Time Favorite?

Walt Kelly, a talented artist who once graced Disney’s studios, ventured into comics, creating the beloved Pogo Possum for Dell Comics back in 1943. Kelly’s unique style and humor, particularly through his "swamp-speak," added charm and wit to the Okefenokee Swamp inhabitants. This humor blended seamlessly with insightful political commentary, making Pogo stand out in the comics realm.

Emerging from the pages of The New York Star in 1948, Pogo soon reached national syndication. The animal characters, such as Albert Alligator and Pogo, entertained while poking fun at societal nuances. With clever wordplay and unexpected satire, Kelly grabbed readers’ attention.

The strip’s popularity peaked with Kelly’s 1971 Earth Day comic. Here, Pogo famously stated, "We have met the enemy, and he is us," a poignant twist on a historical quote. This highlighted Kelly’s talent for blending humor with heartfelt messages about the environment.

Kelly’s untimely passing in 1973 didn’t dim his legacy. The Pogo comic strip continued under his widow’s guidance until 1975, but the nostalgia for his work endures.

The Origin of "Deck Us All With Boston Charlie"

This uniquely charming carol debuted amidst a plotline filled with intrigue. Pogo and his pals, after a whimsical adventure-solving spree, found themselves in a Christmas conundrum. Their holiday spirit was sparked by receiving a rubber bone gift — thanks to the hilariously misnamed Beauregard Bugleboy.

As Christmas approached, Pogo’s world was as warm as ever. His friend Porky Pine encapsulated the essence of camaraderie with a simple daisy gift. The merriment ensued, with Albert initially refusing to play Santy Claus for a local orphanage party. Thankfully, in classic Pogo style, friends like Churchy LaFemme joined the celebration, debuting the carol, "Deck Us All With Boston Charlie."

This malapropistic marvel has charmed fans since — its catchy lyrics instantly recognizable. Though it might have started as a quirky twist on a familiar tune, it quickly cemented its place in Pogo’s lore. A year later, the nationally syndicated strip revived the carol, solidifying it as a Pogo staple.

In 1962, the carol reached new heights with Lambert, Hendricks & Ross. Their jazz rendition on the album Jingle Bell Jazz introduced Pogo’s tune to a wider audience, celebrating its playful yet profound nature.

Inspired by Pogo’s longstanding charm and influence? You’re in luck! Dive into this year’s Advent Calendar for more unforgettable comic memories. And if you have a favorite Christmas storyline from the comics world, reach out to us; perhaps your suggestion will inspire next year’s holiday countdown.