Harrison Township’s Historical Society and its recreation commission have released a holiday ornament that went on sale on Dec. 10 as part of an annual fundraiser by the former.
Each year, the ornament features a landmark that spotlights part of the community’s history. This year’s version features the large Christmas tree lighted each year during Lights on Main, the largest annual event in the township and one that draws about 10,000 people, according to the commission. The ornament is meant to represent the event’s importance in the community.
Featured in its background is the historical society’s Old Town Hall Museum. This building was first constructed in 1871, according to the society’s website, and served as the seat of government in Mullica Hill for almost a century. The building is listed on the National Registers of Historic Places by the Library of Congress. Today, it serves as a museum where the society hosts exhibits.
“This is a great way to represent Mullica Hill,” recreation coordinator Sharon Chew said of the ornament. “It’s very important to us since Mullica Hill is a historic town, and this is a great way to spotlight this.”
The ornament’s landmark changes with each year. Others have included the Union Academy, a former school built in 1908, according to the society; the Old Farmer’s National Bank, which opened in 1904 and was the only bank in the state that did not close after the stock market crash of 1929; and Richwood Academy, a school built in 1870 that was used until 1950, when Harrison Township Elementary School opened.
“In past years,” noted Chew, “it’s been different buildings, such as those on Main Street, that have highlighted the history of the community.”
As for this year’s ornament, it can be purchased online for $26 through Jan. 30 – while supplies last – at Eventbrite.com. Pickup will be at the township municipal building’s clerk window Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Ornaments can also be purchased at Serendipity XIX on South Main Street and at the Candy Box in Pitman. Proceeds will help fund recreation commission events and activities.
To obtain past ornaments, contact Chew at htrec@harrisontwp.us.
