Since 2022, the FTHS has released one new ornament each holiday season. First it was our horse and sleigh design; then our Meeting House; after that, it was the extremely popular Pelican Diner sign. (If you missed one of these, don’t worry–we still stock previous years’ designs!)
Now it’s time to reveal the subject our 2025 ornament: the oldest landmark in Wanamaker/New Bethel!
The New Bethel School, a two-story brick structure on Southeastern Avenue, was constructed in 1882 and served as the area school for all grades for the next quarter century. In the 1920s, the building became the Bethel Tavern (traces of the famous painted “Chicken Dinner” sign can still be spotted on the northwest side of the building). A variety of local Franklin Township businesses called this building home through the following decades, most recently the Wanamaker Flower Shop.
And (drumroll, please!) here is this year’s ornament design:
These limited-run ornaments are designed and manufactured right here in Franklin Township by Antares Versatile Arts. They are made of high-gloss engraved acrylic and will come with a ribbon hanger. Pick one up in person at our upcoming Harvest Dinner or Christmas at the Meeting House, or you can order yours online!