Picturesque diorama artwork depicting 1960s-era Bucks County colonial life and the American Revolutionary saga has found a new home at the Bensalem Township Municipal Building lobby.
These unique displays were installed at the former Strawbridge and Clothier, located at the Neshaminy Mall during the 1960s. Many long-time Bensalem residents and visitors can tell a story or two about their experience with the dioramas.
“They truly are a part of Bensalem and the unique history we hold,” said Mayor Joseph DiGirolamo. “As soon as we received information these precious fixtures were going to be demolished, the Bensalem Historical Society jumped into action. Between our administration, the Neshaminy Mall management and the muscle of our Public Works Department, we were able to save these integral pieces of the past.”
For now, the diorama that reenacts the signing of the Declaration of Independence will be part of the Bensalem Township building’s lobby.
“While I love all the scenes, I have a penchant for the signing of the Declaration of Independence,” said Sally Sondesky, president of the Bensalem Historical Society. “We celebrated Bensalem’s tricentennial in 1992 (founded and incorporated in 1692) and re-created the entire signing scene with people, costumes, and an exact replica of Independence Hall, where the Declaration was signed. This was the birth of what people have come to know as our annual Pride Day Celebration, or Fall Festival, as it has affectionately been renamed over the years, so this one truly has a special place in my heart.”
The township building, located at 2400 Byberry Road, is currently closed because of COVID-19 restrictions, but it hopes to invite the public inside soon to enjoy this piece of priceless history.
