Centennial Star
Austrian Crystals adorn this collection of handcrafted stars, which is a ten-year series leading up to our Centennial Celebration in 2023. Each year, a new ornament was crafted to create a stunning 10-piece set. Every ornament is perfectly packaged in a beautiful red embossed presentation box. Celebrate Wendell August and American craftsmanship with this truly elegant Centennial Star Collection.
The Who, What and Why of Our Centennial Star Ornaments
Our story began in 1923, when coal mine owner Wendell McMinn August hired a blacksmith to forge metal doorlatches for his home. Inspired by their affordability and attractiveness, Wendell was inspired to start a decorative ironware business. Nearly 100 years later, we remain dedicated to tradition, heritage and history, and to the exceptional artistry and craftsmanship reflected in our American-made metalware.
With our passion about celebrating life's meaningful occasions and milestones, several years ago we started our ten-year series of Centennial Star Limited Edition Ornaments, to culminate in the upcoming 100-year anniversary of Wendell August Forge. Each year, we release a completely unique star ornament design in a variety of metals including bronze, aluminum and silver. The artistically designed and hand-forged pieces are further embellished with Swarovski crystals, a beautiful detail that gives these ornaments their special sparkle.
This Year's Centennial Star
The Holly and Ivy Centennial Star is the eighth and most current star in this series. Styled by eminent artist Linda Hoover and rendered in aluminum and bronze through the skill of master die engraver Ken Youngo, the star is another absolutely enchanting addition to this limited-availability collection. Only 1,000 bronze and 5,000 aluminum Holly and Ivy Stars have been crafted, making each ornament a true collectible.
It's Not Too Late!
In addition to the Holly and Ivy Centennial Star, there are still some previous year's stars available, which include Holiday Revelry, Dogwood, Ribbons and Bows, True North, Noel, Tracery and Wintersong. Similarly, the sophisticated artwork of each - amazing in its detail - is highlighted by the rainbow dazzle of Swarovski crystals. Check to see which metals are still available for these exquisite members of the Centennial Star series.
As with all Wendell August Forge pieces, each of our Centennial Star designs has a meaningful theme consistently tied in with time-honored and universally positive principles. Imagine having all ten of these precious and profound star ornaments shining on your Christmas tree! Complement it a unique tree topper for a put-together, festive look.
Each Centennial Star is engraved on the back with its date of introduction and sent packaged in a beautiful embossed keepsake box. We think you'll agree that honoring 100 years of merging nature's purist elements with artisan craftsmanship to create objects of inspiring beauty, is a truly auspicious occasion. We invite you to join the celebration.