Bring Wheeling History Home This Holiday Season

Celebrate the Season with Wheeling’s Suspension Bridge Ornament

Now that Halloween is behind us, it’s time to dive headfirst into the holiday season. Some of us are already putting up the tree, while others are still dreaming about what their decorations will look like this year. And yes, turkey tastes the same with the tree up! Whether you’re decking your halls early or savoring the anticipation, it’s the perfect time to add something new to your holiday traditions.

Local artist Janet Pissos is helping us celebrate with a limited-edition Wheeling Suspension Bridge pewter ornament, available exclusively at the Wheeling Artisan Center Shop.

“This opportunity meant a great deal to me,” Pissos said.

“As a lifelong Wheeling resident, it was a chance to represent my community through my art, celebrating its landscape and architecture. I was honored to be chosen among other talented artists.”

From Concept to Collectible

In August, Wheeling Heritage and the Artisan Center Shop invited artists of all skill levels to submit digital designs celebrating the Wheeling Suspension Bridge. Finalists were selected, prizes awarded, and the winning design—now crafted in pewter—became this year’s collectible.

The ornament measures 4 inches and showcases Wheeling’s iconic bridge in timeless pewter detail. Only 100 were produced, and fewer than 50 remain. Pick one up in person at the Wheeling Artisan Center Shop or order online for delivery.

Order your 2025 Suspension Bridge Ornament here

Real Photo Postcard: Suspension Bridge, circa 1907-1909
Courtesy of OCPL Archives

A Piece of Wheeling History

Completed in 1849, the Wheeling Suspension Bridge has long been a symbol of innovation and connection, and it almost didn’t survive. Learn more about the bridge’s remarkable story:
“How Wheeling Almost Lost Its Suspension Bridge.”

Whether you’re collecting, gifting, or simply adding a piece of Wheeling’s heritage to your holiday décor, this ornament is a perfect way to celebrate the city’s past and present this season.

  • Riley Carpenter is a Wheeling local, born and raised. She grew up in Warwood, attended West Liberty University, lived in Oglebay for a short while and now lives in Clearview with her husband, two children and fur babies. Riley loves everything Wheeling related and never has thought of moving away. She taught in Ohio County Schools for nearly ten years, and recently has joined the Wheeling Heritage team as their Director of Programming! Riley is also a photographer, and officially opened her own photography business, Riley Lynn Photography LLC, in 2020. She loves capturing the emotion of joy most of all, no matter what the occasion! 

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