Historic Poole Forge will host a Thanksgiving online auction, featuring a range of gift items as well as a community quilt. The bidding will open at 1 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 29, and close at 8 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 1.

"This is an online auction only. We hold the auction over Thanksgiving weekend," explained Dawn Ekdahl, Poole Forge executive director.

The featured auction item will be the "Songbird Melody" community quilt featuring different patches made by local women, along with two quilted pillows, "showcasing the amazing handiwork of our community quilters," said Ekdahl. The queen-size quilt depicts a variety of birds, including cardinals, blue jays and bluebirds.

Among the items offered up for bids as part of the online auction are overnight stays at The Inn at Twin Linden in Narvon and The Inn & Spa at Intercourse Village; a hot air balloon ride provided by Air Ventures Balloon Rides Inc.; "PA Balloons Over Lancaster," a framed print by Lancaster city artist Liz Hess; an archery lesson; a private spinning and weaving lesson; a professional photography session; a dye package from Green Matters Natural Dye Company; a therapeutic massage donated by Churchtown Therapeutic Massage; a gift certificate to Lititz Bikeworks; a salon gift basket donated by Shear Images in Honey Brook; a round of golf for four players donated by Honeybrook Golf Club; and limited-edition trout and duck prints by local artist Greg Yoder.

Ekdahl noted that in addition to being a successful fundraiser for Poole Forge, the auction also highlights local businesses. "We started the auction during COVID as a way to showcase and auction our annual community quilt as well as other donated services and goods from small local businesses and individuals," she stated. "(The auction offers) unique gift opportunities supporting local businesses."

Proceeds will benefit Historic Poole Forge, a 26-acre site that features a preserved historic ironmaster's mansion, a children's playground, a picnic pavilion, a ballfield, a nature trail, wildflower meadows and gardens. It is highlighted by a covered bridge that crosses the Conestoga River. The site hosts a wide range of free public events and recreational and educational experiences, including the annual Poole Forge Day, Cruise to the Forge, spring and fall plant swaps and summer nature courses.

"All funds (from the auction) support our missions in conserving the environment, preserving history and furthering educational and community programs," Ekdahl added.  

Those who would like to bid on items are asked to visit http://www.biddingowl.com and search for "Historic Poole Forge." A link to the online auction will be posted at http://www.historicpooleforge.org and on the "Historic Poole Forge" Facebook page.

Historic Poole Forge is located at 1940 Main St., Narvon. For more information about the historic site or the auction, call 484-797-5302.