After 60 years, Neshaminy Mall historic dioramas saved | Exclusive
Ten minutes. That’s how long it took to rescue the last three pieces of unique historical artwork from imminent destruction in Bucks County on Tuesday. Ten minutes after a week of careful planning, precise measuring and tricky demolition work necessary to free the large window-size dioramas in the now-closed Neshaminy Mall in Bensalem. The displays removed Nov. 10 were the last of seven animatronic dioramas depicting scenes from Colonial life during the American Revolution that were installed nearly 60 years ago as part of an intended permanent exhibit. With demolition of more than half of the mall property scheduled to start next month as part of a major mixed-use redevelopment of the property, Bensalem officials had pledged to save the last and most difficult to remove of the displays. Sally Van Sant Sondesky, founder and former president of the Bensalem Historical Society, was among the handful of onlookers Tuesday who got a close up view as they were removed. The scenes depicted William Penn signing a treaty with the Shackamaxon tribe; Ben Franklin’s 1785 return to Philadelphia from Paris and finally, the 1777-78 hiding of the Liberty Bell in Allentown. “You can’t do that anymore,” Van Sant Sondesky said of
Bensalem Township, PA · 1d
