New shopping destination opens in Bird-in-Hand

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People have been flocking to Bird-in-Hand in Lancaster County since Colonial Times. Back then, it was a stop along the way when roads were built between Lancaster and Philadelphia. Today it’s popular with visitors who want to observe the routines of those who espouse a simpler way of life. For some, taking home a little something to remind them of the area is part of the whole experience and the newest place to offer such items is at the Artisan Village located at 2705 Old Philadelphia Pike.  

The new shopping destination will be located in a historic structure that dates back to the 1890s when Jonas and Isaac Neuhauser built it for their hardware and farm machinery business. Over the years, it served as a farm machinery showroom, auto repair facility, automobile dealer and gas station. The building is also noted for being one of the first buildings in the area to install electric lights and a telephone. When Jonas’ sons retired in the late 1950s, Abram Keener bought the shop and turned it into the Old Village Hardware & General Store. 

Sherri Wanner, owner of Welsh Mountain Candle Co. will be one of 40 vendors selling her creations in the Artisan Village. Wanner said that her company was born from a desire to create beautiful clean-burning candles that customers feel good about burning. “We are passionate about using renewable plant-based waxes that are hexane free and promote a healthier burn,” she said, adding that she is excited to work alongside other makers. “This village has so much to offer with its farm market, bakery shops and restaurants and this new artisan village will be a great addition, making Bird-in-Hand a fun destination to enjoy all of Lancaster county’s goodness,” she said. 

Karen Sensenig, owner of Dance of Life LLC, said she feels similarly. “I look forward to demonstrating my process of making ceramic oil lamps and waterfalls on my pottery wheel,” she said, adding that there’s already a sense of comradery among the makers. Sensenig said that her products are designed to create calmness. “I care about the well-being of people and my unique booth in the Artisan Village encourages visitors to breathe and take in the stillness of illuminated waterfalls and water dancers,” she said.  

John E. Smucker II, Chief Executive Officer of Bird-in-Hand Corporation, said that the Artisan Village was created to draw in visitors. “We’re supporting local businesses and giving folks another reason to spend some time in Bird-in-Hand. We think it will be a great place for local residents to find gifts and handcrafted items, and for visitors to take home an authentic piece of Lancaster County,” he said. 

The Artisan Village will hold its grand opening on May 19 and 20. 

Stephanie Kalina-Metzger is a freelance writer