Hartenstein Funeral & Cremation Care

10/06/2025

For over 130 years, we have been honored to serve our community with compassion and dignity. Our history is long and meaningful, and today we are proud to share it with you.

Part 1: Cabinetmaker George Lewis Hartenstein (1854–1934), born in Philadelphia to German emigrants Johann Georg and Barbara (Stahle) Hartenstein, began his career with Wanamaker’s Department Store in Philadelphia.

In the 1870s, George moved to Railroad, York County, where he met and married Lydia Helb. He worked with his father-in-law at the Helb Furniture Factory but eventually returned to Philadelphia, to build fine furniture by hand. After the tragic loss of their young daughter Rebecca, George and Lydia returned to southern York County and settled in New Freedom.

In 1885, George purchased David Hershey’s furniture and undertaking business in New Freedom. He soon expanded, opening the “Old Reliable Furniture and Carpet House” at Front and Franklin Streets, where he built furniture and coffins by hand. He also added a funeral parlor to the store, marking the beginnings of the family’s funeral service tradition.

Stay tuned for part 2!

10/02/2025

Did you know that, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime? Thanks to advances in early detection and treatment, survival rates have improved significantly. As October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we stand in support of survivors, those currently fighting, and we remember the loved ones we have lost to this disease.

10/01/2025

https://www.hartensteincares.com/obituaries/edward-mckay

View Edward John McKay's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/30/2025

Interesting Funeral Facts: Abraham Lincoln’s funeral in 1865 lasted three weeks and traveled over 1,700 miles by train from Washington, D.C., to Springfield, Illinois. Millions of Americans paid their respects along the route, and his time lying in state at the U.S. Capitol drew tens of thousands of mourners.

09/26/2025

View Jean Amspacher's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/26/2025

09/23/2025

Being part of this community means being here when you need us most. Neighbors caring for neighbors, every step of the way.

09/19/2025

Start the conversation with us today. Our caring staff is here to gently guide you through you options.

09/17/2025

Sometimes the smallest gestures mean the most! Comment below what small gestures can mean the most.

09/11/2025

Today, we pause to remember the lives lost 24 years ago, and honor the courage of the first responders and all who came together in the face of such tragedy. We will never forget.