A Journey Through Time with Hampshire’s Historic Ornaments
In the quaint and historical heart of Hampshire County, a tradition once flourished, enchanting locals and visitors alike. From 1987 to 2006, the Hampshire County Historical Society commissioned and sold a series of unique Christmas ornaments, each representing a significant landmark of the area. These ornaments weren’t just decorations; they were storytellers, holding within them the rich tapestry of Hampshire’s past.
The First Twenty: A Legacy Encapsulated
The collection began with “Literary Hall” and expanded to include iconic sites like “Hook Tavern,” “Bloomery Grist Mill,” and “Hampshire County Courthouse.” Each piece was a miniature homage to the county’s diverse heritage, from the stately “Nathaniel Kuykendall House” to the quaint “Moss Rock Inn.” Accompanied by a booklet detailing the first ten ornaments, this collection became a cherished part of local Christmas traditions, weaving history and holiday spirit together.
A Pause in Tradition
However, in 2006, the production of these ornaments ceased, leaving a void in the holiday season of Hampshire County. The memories lingered, but the tradition lay dormant, a treasure trove of local history tucked away in the attics and memory boxes of those who had collected them.
Rekindling the Spark: My Aunt Betty’s Influence
It was in 2021, inspired by my great Aunt Betty from Augusta, that the Hampshire County Convention & Visitors Bureau, in consultation with the Hampshire Historical Society, decided to revive this beloved tradition. Aunt Betty, known for her festive spirit, famously adorned each room of her house with a Christmas tree, each twinkling with lights and ornaments. Her home, a beacon of holiday cheer along Route 50, opposite Doodle’s Place, left an indelible mark on my heart.
Rediscovering an old photo of Aunt Betty’s little tree, adorned with the original twenty ornaments, reignited a passion within me. Remembering her collection, I felt a deep connection to my roots and a desire to extend this legacy.
The New Era: French’s Mill and Pin Oak Fountain
Thus, in 2022, we introduced the “French’s Mill” ornament, followed by the 2023 addition, the “Pin Oak Fountain.” These new ornaments are not just decorations; they are a bridge to our past and a beacon for our future. Crafted with care, they capture the essence of Hampshire’s enduring beauty and historical significance.
Where to Find These Gems
These ornaments are available exclusively at Bent River Trading Company in Capon Bridge and The Country Store on Main in Romney. Priced at $15 each, they are a steal for anyone wanting to own a piece of Hampshire’s history. But hurry, as they are available in limited quantities!
Carrying the Torch
As I look at my collection of the first twenty ornaments and the latest additions, I feel a deep sense of pride and responsibility. This isn’t just about preserving history; it’s about celebrating our community’s identity and fostering a sense of belonging. Every ornament is a story, a memory, and a piece of Hampshire that we can hold in our hands.
This holiday season, as you hang these ornaments on your tree, remember the stories they tell and the legacy they carry. Let’s keep this tradition alive, for the joy it brings today and the memories it will create for generations to come.
✨ Happy Holidays from Hampshire County! ✨
Here are six of Aunt Betty’s trees. There were many more! My daughter, Sarah Ladd, is the little girl pictured. In memory of “Aunt Bets”~June 7, 1925 – July 6, 2022.
