As one of the first buildings constructed at Franklin & Marshall College, Old Main has stood the test of time. To commemorate its place in Lancaster history, the iconic structure has been chosen as the 14th Lancaster Landmark Ornament, an annual fundraiser for Lancaster's Economic Action for Downtown's Success (LEADS), the all-volunteer group that provides all city holiday decorations, including the Penn Square Christmas tree and summertime hanging flower baskets in Lancaster.

LEADS selected the 165-year-old Old Main as this year's honored landmark. Dedicated in 1856, Old Main embodies the classic details associated with Gothic Revival architecture, including extreme verticality, lancet windows and louvers, battlements, and finials. It was designed by the Baltimore firm Dixon, Balbirnie & Dixon and built by Lancaster contractor Haden Patrick Smith at a cost of $25,136 starting in 1854.

The 3D ornaments are renditions of structures that have played a meaningful role in Lancaster's historic and cultural life, crafted of solid brass plated in 24-karat gold. For the first time, the ornament is offered in full color. It can be used as a tree or window decoration or displayed in the gold foil box it comes in along with a card telling its history.

Since 2012, LEADS has invested more than $75,000 to improve the city's holiday decorations. Proceeds from the sale of the ornaments go toward paying for that investment.

Ornaments can be purchased at several Lancaster locations, including BUiLDiNG CHARACTER, 342 N. Queen St., rear warehouses; Festoon at the Firehouse, 202 N. Duke St.; the Turkey Lady at Central Market; and the city Visitors Center on Penn Square. They can also be ordered by calling BUiLDiNG CHARACTER at 717-394-7201. There is an additional charge for shipping.

For more information about LEADS, visit http://www.lancasterleads.org.