In 2017 it looked as though the 80-year-old Hanover tradition of Santa’s Cabin was in jeopardy. The beloved Cabin was in such a state of disrepair there was doubt that it would make it to another season. It was then that Former Mayor Ben Adams, the Borough of Hanover, and the Hanover Christmas Committee decided to pursue the replacement of the Cabin with a brand new log cabin.

Upon hearing of this idea, the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #1406 decided that they wanted to fund the cabin build so this cherished Hanover tradition could continue for many generations to come. The project went out for bid in early 2018 and Fitzgerald Heavy Timber, experts in log cabin structures, were chosen to do the project. Located out of Thurmont, Maryland the team decided that it would build the structure in Hanover, in the Hanover Borough Public Works lot.

Below are some frequently asked questions about the Cabin and its replacement:

FACTS

• The new trailer the Cabin sits on was made and donated by Riley Welding – old trailer was cracked and most of the cabin was not sitting on the trailer.
• Old windows were taken to builders and recreated for the new cabin.
• Old logs are being dried, stored & will be created into keepsakes to be sold during the 2019 Season.
• Many logs were rotted and the floor/carpet was rotting and moldy along edges.
• Entire cabin was leaning and unstable. No continual log on the side walls to hold cabin together – the roof was keeping all 4 walls upright.
• Walls were filled with bird nests and plastic over walls for insulation was disintegrated.
• There was no chinking remaining between the logs. You could see straight through the logs.
• The Cabin had very old wiring.

REPURPOSED & REUSED

• Both doors, although not original (created in the 1980’s) were re-created into 2 planter boxes for Christmas trees in front of cabin, built by Leonard’s Woodworking, Seth Leonard.
• Front door hinges were reattached to the front new front door and replicas were created for the side door.
• Fireplace was repaired and reinstalled.
• Fireplace mantle is made from previous cabin logs.
• Wood in the hanging light in the interior of the Cabin is from the previous cabin.
• Mailbox and headquarters sign have been reused.
• Front door knocker has been rehung.
• Windows have been transformed into photo frames on cabin walls.

NEW HIGHLIGHTS & FEATURES

• The new Cabin is a wood built log structure construction was done using a blend of hand tools and modern construction methods.
• Logs were brought to Hanover and Cabin was built on site at Public Works Municipal Lot.
• Only slightly larger size to accommodate the handicap accessibility.
• Additional spotlights were added along with more interior and exterior electrical outlets.
• Custom hanging light, built with old cabin logs and a vintage tree stand.
• New exterior door lanterns.
• New custom upholstered chair, designed by Santa.
• New lighter, permanent faux chimney.
• Ice/snow guards on new hunter green metal roof will be very long lasting.

In order to celebrate such a moment for the community, the Christmas Committee members and Main Street Hanover knew that the holiday activities in 2018 had to be just as special. Partnering with artist Bobbi Becker, the committee launched a new coloring contest. School-aged children were asked to submit finished color pages, designed by Becker, to be judged by the committee. The winning coloring page artist was invited to ride in the Christmas parade with Santa on the brand new Fire Company 79 engine.

The Christmas parade, though one of the coldest remembered, was very well attended and the crowds were very excited to see brand new Santa’s Cabin. The day after the parade was celebrated in downtown as Small Business Saturday. Though rainy, many shoppers visited downtown shops to start their Christmas Shopping. While Main Street Hanover had to cancel the Tree Lighting Ceremony, the decorated tree, donated by Bandana Ranch and decorated in partnership with Christopher Cringle’s is a beauty to behold. Santa began his hours greeting visitors on November 23, following the parade, and is anticipating 2,500 children visitors this 2018 season.

The last exciting holiday event for the season was the December 2nd Saturday event, Cookie Stroll. Local businesses served hundreds of visitors holiday cookies in this free, family-friendly stroll around downtown Hanover. Bringing awareness to the downtown businesses, this event was a huge success. To complete the day, MSH kicked off the 5th Annual Tree Wars, For the Love of a Veteran held a pub crawl and Miscreation featured live music from Catfish Head and an Ugly Sweater Party. 2018 holidays were a huge success, and all involved are looking forward to planning next year’s downtown activities!

These activities would not be possible without the support of the generous business community and giving individuals in our area. We thank all the following donors!