New Hope &Solebury
NOVEMBER 2026
GRACEFUL GATHERING
AT THE BLACK BASS HOTEL
A VIEW THROUGH HISTORY
BOWMAN’S HILL TOWER
Music and Memories
JOHN & PETER’S
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Contents NOVEMBER 2026
20
F EATU RES
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Keeping Traditions Alive Generations of locals, musicians, and regulars return to John & Peter’s every Thanksgiving night for a celebration that feels like a festive homecoming.
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Graceful Gathering The owners of the Black Bass Hotel honor the past while providing an elevated experience to guests.
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For nearly a century, Bowman’s Hill Tower has offered sweeping views of Bucks County while becoming a place where history and memories come together.
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A View Through Time
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I N TH I S I S SU E
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE Falling for November
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LOCAL PULSE Bite-Sized Updates
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Q&A Zach Peckman
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LOCAL TASTES A Taste of Thanksgiving
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LOCAL ARTS Holiday Highlights
28
HOME FRONT Frame It With Feeling
30
BOOK NOOK Native Voices
32
PHOTO OP An Autumn Pause
COVER
Mike Wieners and Kevin Rauch, co-owners of John & Peter’s along with Chris WiIliams (not pictured)
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Photograph by Lucent Reflections Photography (Lucy Espejel)
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For 20 years, Addison Wolfe Real Estate has proudly called New Hope and Solebury home. Built on a vision of exceptional service, we’ve grown into a thriving brokerage known for integrity, innovation, and a strong commitment to our clients and community. As we look to the future, our focus remains unchanged: extraordinary people, exceptional homes, and the communities that make this area so special.
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PUB LISH ER’S NOTE
WE ARE NOW knee-deep in fall,
surrounded by the exquisite colors of autumn and a carpet of fallen leaves. Before the temperatures dip too far, we have the opportunity to enjoy, experience, and appreciate all that enriches us right here in our community. As we get into the spirit of the holiday season, we are delighted to share stories that we hope shed light on some of the places you may know well and share what makes them so special. John & Peter’s. Treasure. Institution. Haven. Notice that I haven’t even used the word “music,” because it seems to be the feeling of John & Peter’s that resonates so clearly in people’s minds. I could fill this note with all the words people use to describe such a unique place in the community—and in people’s hearts. We had the opportunity to spend time with Mike Wieners, Chris Williams, and Kevin Rauch and find out just what being the co-owners of this incredible local business means to them. Beyond the music and delicious bar food, we share what makes John & Peter’s so special
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PHOTOGRAPH BY JUAN VIDAL PHOTOGRAPHY
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FALLING FOR NOVEMBER
and why so many gather on Thanksgiving for a night of music and togetherness. As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving and focus on all that we’re grateful for, another historic spot is perfect for the holidays—or any day you might just want to feel history, enjoy delicious food, and take in the scenery. Fall is one of the most spectacular times to visit the Black Bass Hotel, from its cozy interior to its gorgeous riverside setting. Through our time spent with owner Karen Thompson, of LSL Brands, we learned about her commitment to preserving the legacy of this historic building. We also saw firsthand the incredible talents of the team, from Executive Chef Cory Price to General Manager Terri Kleinguenther. Words don’t describe their passion and how they earn the appreciation of their customers and the community every day. We have no shortage of historic landmarks in our backyard, and they take shape in many different forms. One of these treasures is historic Bowman’s Hill Tower. If you haven’t taken the trek (or elevator) to the top, you’re missing out on a treasure in our midst. The tower is steeped in history, and the views provide an opportunity to experience it through today’s spectacular landscape. The tower isn’t just for showing out-of-town guests around, it’s a perfect way for locals to take in the exquisite beauty that surrounds us. With holiday festivities abounding, we’re thankful to Chef Cory for sharing a delicious and hearty side dish recipe that everyone will love. As always, Buffy Hastings shares special reads for the month, too. At this time of year, I am grateful for so much but especially to be part of this special community. Thank you for sharing your stories and for opening your homes to us each month. Have a wonderful November and Thanksgiving holiday!
Publisher Laura Lazar Laura.Lazar@wainscotmedia.com Editor Lela Casey Lela.Casey@wainscotmedia.com Writers Alexander Fraser Buffy Hastings Dari Kotzker Photographers Jennifer Janikic Photography Lucent Reflections Photography (Lucy Espejel)
WAINSCOT MEDIA Chairman Carroll V. Dowden President and CEO Mark Dowden SVP, Group Publisher Thomas Flannery VP, Content Strategy Maria Regan Creative Director Kijoo Kim Art Director Rosemary O’Connell Executive Editor Elaine Quilici Associate Editor Sophia Carlisle Advertising Services Director Jacquelynn Fischer Operations Director Catherine Rosario Production Designer Chris Ferrante Print Production Manager Fern Meshulam
Laura Lazar Publisher
newhopeandsoleburymag.com @newhopeandsoleburymag
Have a story idea? Email the editor: Lela.Casey@wainscotmedia.com
Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden
New Hope & Solebury magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of New Hope and Solebury Township, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2026 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
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a season worth savoring GATHER. INDULGE. CELEBRATE. From Thanksgiving traditions to festive nights along the river, make this a season of exceptional flavors, unforgettable gatherings, and a little extra indulgence.
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LOCAL PULSE
Nick Esser, Addison Wolfe Real Estate managing partner; Art Mazzei, founder; Frank Mancuso, cofounder and broker; and Tracey Castelli Foote, director of operations
PATH TO PRIDE WELLNESS WALK
A REAL ESTATE CELEBRATION
Participants in The Path to Pride Wellness Walk on Oct. 3 made their way to the top of Goat Hill Overlook for views of the Delaware River. New Hope Celebrates hosted the walk in partnership with Penn Medicine as part of its OUT in October celebration of LGBTQ+ History Month.
On Sept. 25, Addison Wolfe Real Estate celebrated with an event marking two decades in the Bucks County real estate community. The New Hope-based boutique brokerage brought together members of its team and supporters at Playhouse Deck to commemorate the milestone and look ahead to its next chapter.
SPOTLIGHT ON ART Jim’s of Lambertville opened its 30th Thrilla in Lambertvilla exhibition Oct. 17, featuring more than 300 works of Pennsylvania Impressionist and Modernist art. First launched in 1997, the show highlights newly acquired works by artists who helped make New Hope an important center of American art in the early 20th century. The exhibition continues through February 2027. Claudia Costa, Jim Alterman, Scott McSloy, Bob Lewis, Laurie Madaus, Monika Suli, and Juan Vidal
TWO TOWN TURKEY TROT On Nov. 26, the LambertvilleNew Hope Two Town Turkey Trot returns with a Thanksgiving morning 5K and one-mile walk beginning at 8:30 a.m. behind Lambertville Station. Proceeds from the event support the Greater Lambertville Chamber of Commerce, with a portion benefiting Fisherman’s Mark and the Erin McManus-Keyes Scholarship Fund. For details, visit explorelambertville.com/ two-town-turkey-trot.
IT’S TEATIME! PHOTOGRAPH BY KRISTINA GIBB PHOTOGRAPHY
LIBRARY FESTIVITIES Library board members and guests enjoyed an evening together at Library Fest on Oct. 1 at Manoff Market Gardens. The annual fundraiser brought the community together for food, music, and other festivities in support of the Free Library of New Hope and Solebury.
Get into the holiday spirit at the Annual Parry Spirited Tea Celebration on Dec. 5, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Parry Mansion Museum. Enjoy festive treats, meet and take photos with dancers from Roxey Ballet’s “The Nutcracker,” and join New Hope’s Bob Egan for sing-along caroling around the piano in the Music Room. $50 per person; members are free with registration. Tickets can be purchased at newhopehistorical.org.
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Jumping Ahead Competitive jump rope athlete Zach Peckman reflects on speed, music, and taking his sport to the world stage. BY STAFF WRITER How did you get into jump rope? I started when I was 5 years old through the Jump Rope for Heart program at my elementary school. A local exhibition team performed, and I remember thinking, “Wow, that’s really cool.” My gym teacher had a jump rope club before school, so I started practicing there, at recess, and at home. Eventually, I joined the exhibition team and performed at places like Madison Square Garden and the Wells Fargo Center. Then I joined Zero Gravity Jump Rope Team, which introduced me to national and international competition. INTERVIEW WITH
ZACH PECKMAN
How do you use music in your training? Music helps me focus and brings me back to a familiar rhythm. For
What do you enjoy most about jumping? The community. Even when we’re competing against each other, everyone cheers for everyone else. I have friends around the country and have met people from Japan and South Korea through competitions. What’s next for you? My next goal is qualifying for the 2027 world championships in Norway. Long term, I’d love to compete in the Olympics if jump rope becomes an Olympic sport. I’m also applying to colleges and want to keep jumping wherever I go. If my school doesn’t have a club, maybe I’ll start one. What does a perfect day in New Hope look like to you? Walking around town, stopping at Ferry Market, maybe Starbucks or Dunkin’, and spending time by the Delaware River. I love how small and walkable New Hope is and that sense that you know people wherever you go.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF ZACH PECKMAN
NEW HOPE-SOLEBURY High School senior Zach Peckman has taken jump rope from an elementary school activity to the international stage. A national champion and U.S. record holder in speed jump rope, he has represented the United States at world competitions while pursuing another passion: music. Here, Peckman talks about how he became interested in the sport and his approach to competing.
What drew you into speed events? Speed comes more naturally to me than freestyle. A few years ago, I watched a competition video and saw someone next to me going much faster. My dad and I started studying his form and videos of some of the best jumpers in the world. Breaking down what they were doing became a huge part of my training.
my three-minute speed event, I train to a particular song and jump to its tempo, then I use that same beat in competition. I later learned there’s science behind that, called rhythmic entrainment, where your body synchronizes with an external rhythm. I play viola and violin, and both are incredibly rhythmic. With both music and jump rope, you have to build the technique and foundation beforehand, and then trust that preparation when it’s time to perform.
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CELEBRATING 48 YEARS
LU NC H , DI N N E R & C O C K TA I L S Local’s Night EVERY MONDAY 3 Courses, $22 to $28 Barry Peterson on Guitar All are welcome
5 W Mechanic Street, New Hope
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THE B&B EDIT
·
AUTUMN 2026
On heritage, golden light, and the rooms that hold a life.
Some rooms are simply beautiful. Others hold a life: long autumn dinners, stories told by firelight, the slant of late-day sun across old oak floors. At B&B, we believe a remarkable home deserves to be presented with the same care with which it was lived in. Every property, large or small, receives a bespoke, editorial-caliber marketing plan and white-glove guidance from the first conversation to the final signature.
CURATED
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CONSIDERED
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BESPOKE
info@bandbluxuryproperties.com 215.436.9772 www.bandbluxuryproperties.com SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA
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·
NEW JERSEY
10/21/26 8:13 AM
REAL ESTATE REPORT
2026 HOME SALES New Hope & Solebury Township – 08/15/26-10/15/26 Address
Area
Bed
Bath
List Price
Sale Price
Style
DOM
2462 N River Rd
Solebury
4
3
$2,000,000.00
$2,205,000.00
Traditional
6
6464 Old Carversville Rd
Solebury
4
5
$3,750,000.00
$3,575,000.00
Colonial
13
6175 Carversville Rd
Solebury
4
4
$1,900,000.00
$1,897,125.00
Federal
7
3673 River Rd
Solebury
3
2
$975,000.00
$830,000.00
Traditional
155
134 Heather Dr
Solebury
4
4
$1,299,900.00
$1,310,000.00
Colonial
2
142 Silver Tail Ln
Solebury
3
4
$969,000.00
$930,000.00
Other
18
7082 Phillips Mill Rd
Solebury
3
2
$599,900.00
$686,500.00
Cape Cod
4
216 S Sugan Rd
New Hope
5
5
$2,499,000.00
$2,650,000.00
Farmhouse
4
225 Deerfield Ct
Solebury
2
3
$565,000.00
$575,000.00
Traditional
2
6953 Ely Rd
Solebury
3
2
$850,000.00
$852,000.00
Ranch
1
837 Breckinridge Ct #108
Solebury
3
3
$675,000.00
$660,000.00
Colonial
6
74 Avon Ln #7D
Solebury
2
2
$400,000.00
$397,500.00
Other
28
67 W Ferry St
New Hope
2
2
$799,000.00
$750,000.00
Colonial
49
44 W Mechanic St
New Hope
3
4
$2,400,000.00
$2,200,000.00
Colonial
21
420 Fairview Way
Solebury
3
3
$615,000.00
$575,000.00
Traditional
26
302 Weston Ln #23
Solebury
3
3
$615,000.00
$565,000.00
Traditional
81
42 Hermitage Dr
Solebury
1
1
$325,000.00
$323,500.00
Unit
11
20B Oscar Hammerstein Way
New Hope
2
2
$410,000.00
$385,000.00
Other
23
The accuracy of the statistical data in this table is not guaranteed by New Hope & Solebury Magazine. 08/15/26-10/15/26
Brought to you by B&B Luxury Properties New Hope Borough and Solebury Township continue to behave less like a broad suburban marketplace and more like a tightly held collection of luxury micro‑markets, where scarcity, setting, and architectural quality shape outcomes as much as square footage or price point. Pricing remains resilient across 18938, even as the market feels calmer: buyers are more discerning, negotiation has returned in select segments, and days on market now highlight the difference between homes that are thoughtfully priced and presented versus those simply testing the waters. Well‑prepared properties with walkability, river or canal access, acreage, privacy, architectural distinction, or turnkey condition are still moving quickly and commanding premium results, while more ordinary or over‑ambitious listings take longer and invite deeper conversations around value.
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LOCAL TASTES
A Taste of
THANKSGIVING Roasted acorn squash brings the flavors of autumn to your holiday table.
ROASTED ACORN SQUASH
BY STAFF WRITER
(Serves 4) INGREDIENTS • 4 small-to-medium acorn squash •O live oil • 1 medium onion, finely chopped • 1 red bell pepper, diced • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes • 2 tablespoons tomato paste • 2 tablespoons honey • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar •½ teaspoon cayenne pepper • 24 ounces cooked or canned pinto beans, drained • 1 cup corn • S alt and pepper, to taste • Plain breadcrumbs and shredded Gruyère, for topping
Executive Chef Cory Price of the Black Bass Hotel has a side dish that shines in its own right. Her Roasted Acorn Squash is filled with beans, corn, tomatoes, and vegetables, then topped with Gruyère and breadcrumbs for a satisfying dish that fits easily alongside traditional Thanksgiving offerings. Here, she shares her recipe to try at home. Top: Roasted acorn squash. Bottom: Pumpkin pie
In large skillet, sauté onion and pepper in olive oil until softened. Add tomatoes and tomato paste; cook five to eight minutes. Stir in honey, vinegar, and cayenne; simmer 10 minutes until thickened. Add beans and corn; cook 3 minutes more. Season to taste. Brush inside of squash with olive oil, season, and generously fill with vegetable mixture. Cover loosely with foil and bake 25 to 45 minutes, until tender. Top with breadcrumbs and Gruyère; broil until golden brown. For a vegan version, substitute maple syrup for honey and use plant-based cheese. Gluten-free breadcrumbs may also be used.
PHOTOGRAPHS BY JENNIFER JANIKIC PHOTOGRAPHY
THANKSGIVING DINNER is all about creating a table that feels abundant and welcoming for every guest. When hosting at home, that often means finding the right balance between tradition and variety. Familiar favorites can share the table with more unique options, giving everyone plenty to enjoy. Turkey may be the centerpiece, but the dishes surrounding it are often what make the meal memorable. The best sides add substance, complement the main course, and help turn dinner into a full holiday spread. And no Thanksgiving table is complete without something sweet to finish the meal, whether it’s a classic pumpkin pie or another holiday favorite.
DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 375 F. Pierce squash and roast whole for 20 minutes. Cool slightly, cut an opening around each stem to create a lid, and scoop out seeds.
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Lucent Reflections PHOTOGRAPHY
Lucy specializes in family portraits, engagements, maternity, pets, and life’s meaningful milestones. Capturing authentic moments against some of Bucks County’s most scenic views, with a focus on timeless, artistic imagery and genuine connection. www.lucentreflections.com @lucentreflections
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BUCKS COUNTY RACQUET CLUB
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• Locally owned, Family operated, Veteran Owned • Led by husband-and-wife dentists Dr. Meghan Sullivan Walsh and Dr. John Walsh • Serving New Hope and surrounding communities for over 20 years as an independently owned multi-specialty practice. • General & Cosmetic Dentistry • Pediatric Dentistry
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LOCAL ARTS
HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHTS From storybook Christmases and beloved classics to festive concerts and community productions, area theaters get into the spirit. BY ALEXANDER FRASER
Above: “White Christmas.” Left: “A Christmas Carol.” Below: “A Christmas Story”
such as “Blue Skies,” “Easter Parade,” and “White Christmas.” Set in snowy Connecticut, it’s a charming musical that delivers the ultimate storybook Christmas experience.
Bristol Riverside Theatre, Bristol
“A Christmas Story: The Play” (Dec. 1 to Jan. 3, 2027) Based on the beloved holiday film “A Christmas Story,” this play follows young Ralphie Parker and his quest for a Red Ryder BB gun. “This was our most successful show ever, and we’re excited to bring it back,” says Amy Kaissar, producing director. “Christmas is Bristol’s specialty, and this show lets the whole town get involved, including opportunities for children onstage.” On off nights, the theater will also bring back its traditional “An American Christmas Songbook,” from Dec. 15 to 22. FOR ANYONE WORKING in theater, there’s no time like the holidays, when venues are filled to the last row. Lucky for us, you don’t have to go all the way to Radio City Music Hall to find a show that everyone in the family will love. Whether you make plans to take in a performance with a group or gift tickets to someone special, it’s time to book your seats.
Bucks County Playhouse, New Hope
“Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn” (Nov. 19 to Jan. 3, 2027) This show brings to life the hit Fred Astaire-Bing Crosby film “Holiday Inn” and features Irving Berlin classics
McCarter Theatre Center, Princeton, New Jersey
“A Christmas Carol” (Dec. 8 to 27) This longtime holiday tradition returns to McCarter Theatre Center with Cameron Knight in the role of Ebenezer Scrooge, surrounded by music, magic, and the timeless spirit of generosity.
GRASSROOTS THEATER
We’re lucky to have two excellent local community theaters that offer affordable productions with an authentic spirit.
Music Mountain Theatre, Lambertville, New Jersey
“It’s a Wonderful Life: The Musical” (Through Nov. 15) This nostalgic tale focuses on community and the ripple effect of kindness. “A Christmas Carol” (Nov. 20 to Dec. 13) A Music Mountain Theatre holiday tradition, this musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic tale follows Ebenezer Scrooge as three ghosts force him to face his selfish ways. “A Holiday Concert” (Dec. 18 to 20) Celebrate community with this festive evening of song and dance, featuring popular holiday music from artists including Mariah Carey and Ella Fitzgerald.
Town & Country Players, Buckingham
“Holiday Show” (Dec. 4 to 6) This family-friendly cabaret-style concert features holiday favorites and a few seasonal surprises. Alexander Fraser is a veteran Broadway producer who served as producing director of Bucks County Playhouse from 2014 to 2026, helping lead the historic New Hope theater through more than a decade of growth and artistic revival.
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Results.
550 Union Square, New Hope, PA 18938 • AddisonWolfe.com • 215.862.5500
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Alive
Generations of locals, musicians, and regulars return to John & Peter’s every Thanksgiving night for a celebration that feels like a homecoming. BY LELA CASEY
PHOTOGRAPHS BY LUCENT REFLECTIONS PHOTOGRAPHY (LUCY ESPEJEL)
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C Co-owners Chris Williams and Mike Wieners at the outdoor bar
Co-owners Kevin Rauch and Mike Wieners stand by a mural created by Robert McNamara.
COMING HOME for the holidays is not always just about visiting with family. It can also mean returning to the familiar places that make a town feel like home. In New Hope, John & Peter’s has been that kind of place for generations of locals, musicians, and regulars. On Thanksgiving night, once the tables are cleared and the family gatherings begin to wind down, the yearly migration to the beloved venue begins. “Everybody has their Thanksgiving dinner, and then they race from seeing their family to come here to see their extended family— the John & Peter’s family,” says coowner Mike Wieners. Co-owner Chris Williams describes the night much the same way and adds, “They may have different musical tastes, but at the end of the day, they love it.” For years, local musician Chris Harford and his ever-changing Band of Changes have taken the stage at John & Peter’s on Thanksgiving night, drawing musicians and old friends who have made the show part of their holiday tradition. The lineup is rarely the same twice. For Wieners, the night encapsulates what makes Left: Pumpkin tending bar
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John & Peter’s special. “Everybody on stage knows everybody in the crowd, and everybody in the crowd knows everybody on stage,” he says. “The energy just feeds off of that and bounces back and forth across the room.” MORE THAN MUSIC John & Peter’s was founded in July 1972, when John Larsen purchased the building and opened a small breakfast-and-lunch spot with live music. Soon after, his friend Peter Price joined him as a partner, giving the establishment the name it still carries today. Through the decades, the bar became woven into New Hope’s musical history. Artists including George Thorogood, Mary Chapin Carpenter, and Frank Stallone have shared the stage with local and up-andcoming musicians. Wieners says the venue still prides itself on offering live music seven days a week, 365 days a year, twice on Saturdays and Sundays. The status of the artists has never mattered as much as the people themselves. “You could be the biggest NOVEMBER 2026 |
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Mickey Melchiondo from Ween and Chris Harford performing on stage. Harford returns to John & Peter’s this Thanksgiving. PHOTOGRAPH BY PETER BOYCE
Above: J.D. Pinkus on banjo PHOTOGRAPH BY JAMES LAMB
Below: Chris Williams and Mike Wieners
star in the world or the smallest performer in the world—we’re going to treat you the same,” Wieners says. He remembers Larsen saying that “the most important commodity that you could ever have in this business is people.” Over time, John & Peter’s has become as much a gathering place as a music venue. Local business owner John Young calls it “the watering hole of the town,” a place
where he comes to see how all the locals are doing. Wieners was drawn into that sense of community as soon as he arrived in New Hope for a job in pharmaceutical research in 2006. After his day job, he’d bartend at Fran’s Pub, where he became known around town. In 2012, after the sudden death of longtime John & Peter’s bartender Sarah Majoras, Wieners was approached to help fill the staffing gap. From his first shift, he knew there was something different about the place. “There’s an energy in this space that I can’t quite encapsulate or even describe,” he says. “Standing behind that bar that first night with a band onstage just sent chills down my spine.” Shortly after Wieners started working at the bar, longtime John & Peter’s fixture Jim Woolsey told Wieners he thought he had what it took to someday take over the place. Wieners laughed off the idea, but the “little tiny candle” Woolsey lit in his mind, as he puts it, never quite went out. Eventually, Wieners left the corporate world to work at John & Peter’s full time and began talking seriously about buying the business with Williams, a longtime musician who had played bass with Ween in the band’s early years and had deep ties to the bar. Along the way, Wieners met Kevin Rauch, whose culinary background became
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Right: Mike Wieners (right) talks to diners. Below: Pumpkin (right) serves a customer a drink through the window.
what he calls “the third piece of the puzzle.” Rauch already had his own connection to the bar, often stopping in after working shifts next door. “It just felt like home,” Rauch says. “I felt like I belonged somewhere. I loved the music, the atmosphere, the people.” HONORING THE PAST The trio took over operations in August 2017 and officially became owners in January 2018, promising Larsen and Price that John & Peter’s would remain John & Peter’s. “You double down on it,” Wieners says. “You don’t try to change it.” The owners have worked to protect the things that give the place its character, from the wood and intimate stage to the music and, above all, the sense that nearly anyone can walk through the door and belong. The stage is surrounded by the audience on three sides, and Wieners says no one is more than 19 feet from the performer. “You can have drag queens sitting next to bikers, next to investment bankers, next to rockand-roll Hall of Famers, and no one cares,” Wieners says. “Are you a nice person? Can I buy you a beer? Can we sit and trade stories?” Rauch says that keeping the food fresh and making sure the bar has world-class beer on tap have been priorities. Burgers, wings, chicken fingers, and fries remain staples, while Wieners points to the Reuben, quesadillas, and turkey-and-brie sandwich as standouts. Pumpkin may be the most direct link between the past and present. The longtime bartender, performer, and New Hope personality first came to John & Peter’s in the 1980s and has worked there for nearly two decades. “The old pictures on the walls that have been here longer than I have make me feel good every time I walk in the door,” he says. “It’s all reminders of the history.” Pumpkin calls John & Peter’s “one
of the last traces of real New Hope,” where the town’s eclectic personalities still find common ground. A longtime drag performer who helped launch New Hope’s High Heel Drag Race, he jokes that every town needs an aging drag queen keeping an eye on its residents. He adds that John & Peter’s, with its forgivingly soft lighting, is a particularly good place to grow older. By the end of the 1980s, the band Ween had become a regular at the bar, too, beginning a connection that still draws fans from around the country. Members have performed there for years and still stop in to “check on the old girl and make sure that it’s still doing what it should be doing,” Wieners says.
CARRYING IT FORWARD The owners take the responsibility of carrying on the tradition of John & Peter’s seriously. Early on, Wieners says, nearly every decision came back to: What would Larsen do? The pandemic forced them into choices no previous generation had faced, but the goal of preserving what’s special remained the same. “It had to morph. It had to grow,” Wieners says. “But it didn’t have to change.” Late at night, while closing the bar alone, Wieners sometimes talks out loud to Larsen, Price, Woolsey, Majoras, and others who are gone, asking for permission to do something or simply saying he’s doing his best. Running John & Peter’s comes with sacrifices. The hours are long, the work is constant, and as Wieners acknowledges, it’s not always the most profitable way to make a living. But Thanksgiving is one of those nights that reminds him why he keeps showing up. “What we do here means something to people, more so than just a plate of food and a cold beer,” he says. “I will never be a rich person, but I will have a rich life. And it’s because of this place.” Lela Casey is the editor of New Hope & Solebury magazine and has been writing professionally for more than 15 years. She and her family live in Doylestown. NOVEMBER 2026 |
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Graceful Gathering
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The owners of the Black Bass Hotel honor the past while providing an elevated experience to guests.
PHOTOGRAPHS BY JENNIFER JANIKIC PHOTOGRAPHY
BY LELA CASEY
THERE ARE FEW PLACES that capture Bucks County autumn quite like the Black Bass Hotel in Lumberville. With its picture-perfect setting along the Delaware River, the historic inn feels especially appealing as the weather turns cooler. Dining on warm, savory dishes surrounded by local art and antiques, glowing fireplaces, and sweeping river views feels like an invitation to slow down and enjoy the beauty of the season. The Black Bass has been part of local history since the 1740s, when it served travelers and traders making their way along the river. Since then, it has operated under several names and passed through a succession of owners, each leaving their mark. One of the most notable was Herbert “Herbie” Ward, who purchased the property in 1949 and ran the hotel for more than five decades. An avid Anglophile, Ward filled the hotel with British memorabilia, much of which remains today. The hotel’s more recent history has brought plenty of change as well. Executive Chef Cory Price has worked at the Black Bass for 25 years and has seen that evolution firsthand. Price says that she has witnessed the property endure three major floods and eventually
Left: Executive Chef Cory Price and General Manager Terri Kleinguenther outside the Black Bass Hotel. Top: A private dining room at the Black Bass Hotel. Bottom: Dessert served in a private dining area
nearby Lumberville General Store and Golden Pheasant Inn. The purchase grew out of Karen Thompson’s interest in preserving established local businesses for the next generation.
close before the late Jack Thompson purchased it at auction and brought it back to life. She calls what she has seen over those years “an incredible transformation.” The property changed hands again in 2024, when Karen and Dave Thompson (no relation to the previous owner) acquired the Black Bass along with the
PRESERVING CHARACTER For Karen Thompson, taking on the Black Bass was a natural extension of a business career already built around growth and reinvention. She’d turned a small boutique in Peddler’s Village into a much larger company before beginning to think about what happens when longtime business owners are ready to step away from something they have spent years building. That led to what she calls the company’s “legacy” division, focused NOVEMBER 2026 |
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on preserving established businesses in a way that honors the intent of the owners who built them. The three local institutions she purchased were especially appealing because of their deep roots in the community and their location just minutes from her home. Still, Karen Thompson understood that taking over places with such deep histories meant assuming responsibility for more than the businesses themselves. “When you try to take on a venture like this, you really have to pour your heart into it,” she says. Since acquiring the Black Bass, the Thompsons have been focused on updating the property in a way that feels right to them. Located in the Lumberville Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, they were recently awarded a Backing Historic Small Restaurants grant worth $50,000 from the National Trust for Historic Preservation and American Express. Their son Kerry Thompson describes their approach to updates as “understated and elevated,” with rooms repainted, carpeting and linens replaced, lighting updated, and windows and the facade restored. His “big crusade,” he says, is for guests not to notice the changes at all.
In renovating the rooms, he turned to local dealers and artists for pieces that felt right for the property. Local art can now be found throughout the hotel, including paintings by Bucks County artist Alan Fetterman, whose son Jackson works at the Black Bass. Other familiar elements remain in place, including Ward’s collection of British royal memorabilia surrounding the bar. Newer touches were chosen to blend in, among them River Pines, a cedar-sage signature scent that is used throughout the property and offered as a candle for guests to take home. The hotel’s nine individually named suites also reflect its history. For example, the Grover Cleveland Suite honors the former president, an avid fisherman who frequently stayed at the Black Bass, and the Major Fry Suite is name for a 19th-century proprietor who helped save the inn during a fire in 1833. A PERSONAL TOUCH The Black Bass is shaped as much by the people who work there as by its history and surroundings. Some, like Assistant General Manager Jedidiah Young, have seen the hotel through many transitions. Young says the relationships he has built with
coworkers and guests are what have made his years there so meaningful. Watching the hotel grow into what he calls a “well-oiled machine” has been part of the experience, but he says it is the connections made along the way that he will remember most. Terri Kleinguenther, general manager, sees that same element of care reflected in the dining experience. “The first thing you taste is with your eyes,” she says, explaining that presentation, beauty, and elegance all matter before a guest ever takes a bite. Price says the kitchen has received strong support through the most recent two eras of ownership that she has experienced, but it’s the place itself that has kept her there. “The thing I have loved most about working at the Bass over all these years is its location,” she says. “I think it’s really one of the area’s most beautiful spots.” The atmosphere is also what draws locals like Upper Makefield residents Theresa and Harold Tamdurro back again and again. “The view is outstanding,” Harold says. “It’s just a special place.” AT THE TABLE The dining experience begins in the kitchen, where Price creates longtime favorites alongside seasonal dishes. The Charleston Crab, a Southerninspired crab au gratin, has been a staple for years, while fish and steaks are among the restaurant’s most popular offerings. The menu also reflects the Black Bass’ local ties, with cider from Manoff Market Gardens
Left: The outdoor deck at the Black Bass Hotel Right: Upper Makefield residents Harold and Theresa Tamdurro enjoy a meal in the main dining area.
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Top: Bartender Hilliary Ergle at the Black Bass Hotel. Left: Assistant General Manager Jedidiah Young at the reservations desk. Right: Jackson Fetterman with artwork by his father, Alan Fetterman
and baked goods from the Lumberville General Store across the road. For guests, the food, setting, and service all contribute to the overall experience. On a recent fall afternoon, Vernon Post and his wife chose the Black Bass for a date. With fall color surrounding the river, it was an ideal spot for enjoying the foliage and having “some wonderful food.” The combination is especially important during the holidays. Vice President of Operations Bob McGowan says the Black Bass has “a lot of repeat guests and a loyal base
of people” who return year after year. For Thanksgiving, the restaurant offers traditional dishes alongside Black Bass staples, with homemade pies from the Lumberville General Store for dessert. The season continues with Christmas Eve and the Black Bass’ popular New Year’s Day brunch. GIVING BACK For Karen Thompson, caring for a longtime local institution means staying connected to the community. Philanthropy has long been part of her work, including a partnership with
A Woman’s Place, which serves people affected by domestic violence. Around the holidays, her company prepares bags filled with pajamas, robes, and slipper socks for women being served by the organization. “I believe there’s so much good when you marry business and nonprofits together,” she says. Managing the Black Bass comes with another kind of responsibility. With nearly three centuries of history behind it, she knows each generation of owners is only part of a much longer story. “You just think, ‘It’s so important that we do this right,’” she says. NOVEMBER 2026 |
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A
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Bowman’s Hill Tower
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For nearly a century, Bowman’s Hill Tower has offered sweeping views of Bucks County while becoming a place where history and memories come together.
BY DARI KOTZKER
PHOTOGRAPHS BY LUCENT REFLECTIONS PHOTOGRAPHY (LUCY ESPEJEL)
RISING 125 FEET above the trees on Bowman’s Hill, a unique stone tower offers amazing views in Bucks County. On a clear day, visitors can see nearly 14 miles in every direction, taking in the rolling landscape that surrounds the area. Located near the intersection of Route 32 and Lurgan Road within Washington Crossing Historic Park, Bowman’s Hill Tower is a local treasure and has remained a popular landmark for generations. Locals and visitors return season after season to climb to the top to take in the beauty of the area. “It’s a very unusual structure; it’s almost designed like a medieval castle tower in the middle of Bucks County,” says Friends of Washington Crossing Park’s Visitor Services Coordinator Gaetano “Guy” Sava III. “Visitors are very intrigued and want to know all
the details of when it was built, why it was built, and who built it.” For Sava, the curiosity of the tower goes back further than his current job. He grew up in Bucks County and became interested in the structure when he visited it as a boy. His interest deepened when he chose Bowman’s Hill Tower as the focus of his Eagle Scout project. FROM INTRIGUE TO ACTION Sava started his service project at age 14 and completed it when he was 18, in 2011. He researched the history of the tower, then built brackets that would eventually display signs containing information based on his research. He also spearheaded repair projects, including repainting the railings and doors as part of his project. At 17, Sava was hired as a seasonal
weekend tour guide for the tower since he had researched the site and had deep knowledge of its history. Just two weeks into the job, Hurricane Sandy hit, forcing the tower to temporarily close for repairs. While closed, he learned more about other aspects of the park before returning to the tower when it reopened. After graduating from Temple University with a degree in business, Sava was hired full-time and has been sharing his expertise in all aspects of Washington Crossing Historic Park for the past 12 years. With his love of history and tourism, he says having a career here was a natural transition. “As a history buff and growing up near this major historic site, it’s the perfect fit,” he says. “It’s very cathartic as a historian to be able to talk about the history of the tower and the revolution.”
Friends of Washington Crossing Park’s Visitor Services Coordinator Gaetano “Guy” Sava III stands in front of the entrance to Bowman’s Hill Tower.
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Left: Philadelphia resident Victoria Rinner (right) hikes up the hill and tower with her young daughter, mother, and dogs. Right: Doylestown resident Kylie McCullough Ruggieri and her three young sons learn about Bowman’s Hill Tower.
HISTORY REVEALED In 1926, the nation was celebrating the 150th anniversary of America, sparking interest in preserving, commemorating, and promoting sites connected to the American Revolution. The creation of Bowman’s Hill Tower was a state project designed by Pennsylvania state architect Arthur Cowell, with construction work done by Washington Crossing Park Commission employees. Construction began in 1929, and the 125-foot tower was erected in 1930. Visitors would have
to wait another year before they could climb to the top. The tower officially opened to the public in September 1931. “The tower was, in a sense, built to commemorate Bowman’s Hill, which was believed to have been used as a lookout during the Revolution,” Sava says. “It could give people the same sort of view Gen. George Washington’s troops would have had to watch for enemy activity along the Delaware River. The tower was also built to be the centerpiece of the recreational development of the
Upper Park, surrounded by walking paths and picnic pavilions.” Building the stone tower atop the hill was no small undertaking. Throughout the roughly two years of construction, workers used approximately 2,400 tons of material, including nearly 20,00 feet of native stone gathered from the hill and nearby stone fences, cut stone from local quarries, 517 tons of sand, and 225 tons of cement. Even after the tower itself was finished, there was still work to be done before the public could enter. A railing for the staircase needed to be sourced and installed, and a lightning rod was also a necessity because the tower was struck four times during construction. Landscaping was also added to beautify the attraction. Bowman’s Hill Tower has always remained remarkably accessible to the public. It was closed only for an extended period from the late 1970s until 1984, when it underwent repairs and an elevator was installed, and again during the COVID-19 pandemic. Even when the tower was closed, visitors could still enjoy the surrounding Bowman’s Hill area. The distinctive stonework and medieval appearance of the tower are exhilarating to see in person. Whether visitors make their way up the 125 steps or take the elevator, the lookout is an added reward with its breathtaking views.
Bowman’s Hill Tower being built in 1930 PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF FRIENDS OF WASHINGTON CROSSING PARK
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POPS OF COLOR For the third year in a row, Bucks County has been named a top leafpeeping destination in the United States, according to Priceline and TravelAwaits. Within the county, the views from Bowman’s Hill Tower are especially popular for their scenic beauty. The attraction draws approximately 40,000 visitors each year, with fall being the busiest period. “When you look out from the top, the area is heavily wooded, so you get a very nice pantheon of colors all blending together, and it attracts a lot of people who come to see the fall colors,” Sava says. “If you go up later in the day, right before sunset during the golden hour, the sun gets low and that golden hue reflects off of the yellow leaves. It’s very striking.” Victoria Rinner enjoys visiting from Philadelphia to hike up the hill and tower with her young daughter, mother, and dogs. “It’s such a beautiful place to visit,” she says. “There’s always a sense of peace and tranquility while you’re there. Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with beautiful views of the surrounding area, and I also really appreciate the historical significance of the tower.” Although fall may bring the biggest crowds, Sava says the scenery is
worth experiencing throughout the year. During the winter and early spring, before the leaves grow back, the landscape opens up in a different way. Features once hidden by foliage become visible, offering a chance to notice things visitors may have missed during warmer months. In summer, the views include people tubing down the Delaware River and endless fields of greenery. For many, it’s nostalgia that brings them back to Bowman’s Hill again and again. Sava says he frequently encounters adults who fondly remember visiting the site as children with their parents, running up and down the stairs. When he sees
children experience the tower for the first time, he notices that it inspires a sense of wonder, as they imagine themselves in a fairy tale or call it Rapunzel’s tower. Doylestown resident Kylie McCullough Ruggieri recently brought her three young sons to the tower for the first time. “We loved it, it was so scenic,” she says. “My boys enjoyed climbing the stairs to the top, and they all loved riding the elevator down. It’s a neat local attraction for kids that has a lot of history.” The tower also has been a backdrop for people celebrating milestone events. “One of my favorite stories is when someone proposed to his wife at the top of the tower,” Sava says. “Now it’s their pilgrimage every year—to go to the spot where they got engaged.” Bowman’s Hill Tower has welcomed locals and tourists for generations and remains a defining feature of the area’s rural character. It takes approximately three minutes to walk to the top or five minutes by elevator, and for nearly 100 years, visitors have stood at the same high point, looking out over the gorgeous landscape and enjoying the beauty of the community that thrives below. Dari Kotzker is the editor of Upper Makefield magazine. She has worked as a reporter in television news and print media since 2001 and resides in Bucks County with her husband and four kids.
PHOTOGRAPH BY ALEXANDRU VALERI-BRUSCHINI
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HOM E FRONT
Frame It With Feeling Thoughtful framing can turn art and other meaningful objects into pieces that can be enjoyed every day.
THE HOLIDAYS are a natural time to bring meaningful objects back into view. Family photographs, heirlooms, needlework, sports memorabilia, and artwork often carry stories that become especially important when generations gather. Thoughtful framing can help preserve those stories while turning treasured pieces into something that can be enjoyed every day. A THOUGHTFUL APPROACH At As You Like It Gallery and Frame Studio in New Hope, the framing process begins with listening. The staff asks questions about the object, such as where it came from and why it matters, before choosing colors, materials, and design details. The goal
the box has long been one of the studio’s specialties. Just as important as appearance is preservation. Museumquality matboard helps protect artwork, memorabilia, and photographs, while UV protective glazing reduces damage and fading caused by both indoor and outdoor Left: “Walking Bridge” by Patrick Walsh. Above: A framed light. Museum glass photo of Bob Weir. Below: A violin love story offers a high level of UV protection along with an antireflective is not simply to find a frame finish that allows the framed piece to that fits but to create a remain the focus. finished piece that feels connected to the person TRUSTED EXPERTS and the story behind it. Rieser has 51 years of experience, “Framing should be a oneand As You Like It, which has served shot deal, no matter what the greater Bucks County area since you are framing,” owner 1986, has earned numerous “Best Of” Amy Rieser says. A well-designed piece honors. The gallery also represents should be able to move from room award-winning artist Patrick Walsh, to room or home to home without whose work includes local scenes and needing to be reframed. That means abstracts that can serve as statement thinking beyond current décor and pieces in a home. choosing a design that complements Whether you’re framing something the object itself. that has been passed down for Creative framing can also give new generations or choosing artwork to life to objects that might otherwise refresh a room before remain tucked away your holiday gatherings, in drawers or boxes. the goal is the same: to Needlework, keepsakes, make the objects that family mementos, and people care about part of sports memorabilia can the life around them. At all become meaningful As You Like It, that idea is displays when they are summed up in the shop’s thoughtfully arranged longtime slogan: “We and protected. Rieser frame emotions.” says thinking outside
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF AS YOU LIKE IT GALLERY AND FRAME STUDIO
BY STAFF WRITER
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BOOK NOOK
Native Voices These stories celebrate Indigenous American writers across fiction, poetry, food, and more. BY BUFFY HASTINGS one of America’s most important chefs and food writers.
Exploding Chippewas
By Mark Turcotte This poetry collection draws on author Mark Turcotte’s life, travels, and experiences across the United States. His poems have a stunning music to them, and his subjects are potent and full of life. After years spent roaming the country and living and working out of labor camps, Turcotte now makes Chicago his home, and his poems pull from all of it.
The Death of Jim Loney
NOVEMBER IS Native American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the histories, cultures, and voices of Native people across the country. This month’s book selections offer readers of all ages a chance to discover stories by Native authors, from contemporary fiction to books that draw on family, tradition, and the lasting connections between people and place.
YOUNG ADULTS The Birchbark House
CHILDREN Gathering the Light
ADULTS Turtle Island
By Joy Harjo This picture book encourages children to notice moments of gratitude throughout an ordinary day. It is a wonderful story that includes beautiful illustrations and is written by former U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo.
By Louise Erdrich The first book in a series, this novel follows an Ojibwe girl and her family and begins a story that spans generations. Louise Erdrich is one of the best writers in any genre, and her writing here is magnificent. These are books anyone can fall into; they’re full of life and history, with memorable characters and great writing.
By Sean Sherman A must for every kitchen, this cookbook explores Indigenous North American food traditions through delicious recipes that highlight the breadth and depth of the continent’s native cuisines. A three-time James Beard Award winner, Sean Sherman is
By James Welch This novel follows Jim Loney, a lonely and troubled man confronting questions of identity, family, and belonging in Montana. Author James Welch is a master of the short, tightly written novel, and this story unfolds with the sweep of a modern-day Greek tragedy. It is not a book soon forgotten.
From Sand Creek
By Simon J. Ortiz This powerful poetry collection explores Native American history, memory, and identity in the years following the Vietnam War. Simon J. Ortiz is one of the finest writers, and this remains one of the most important American books of the 20th century. His work is lyrical, deeply felt, and unforgettable— a stunning introduction to a writer whose fiction is equally worth discovering. Buffy Hastings is co-owner of Farley’s Bookshop in New Hope.
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PHOTOGRAPH BY RODNEY MAJOR
PHOTO OP
AN AUTUMN PAUSE BY STAFF WRITER AS AUTUMN SETTLES in and cooler days approach, nature’s little creatures begin preparing for the winter ahead. This curious squirrel paused atop a weathered tree stump to enjoy a quick snack, taking a brief break from the seasonal hustle of gathering and storing food. Its expressive eyes, delicate paws, and beautifully textured fur offered the perfect opportunity to capture a little personality in an everyday encounter with nature. Rodney Major, a Bucks County resident with a passion for wildlife photography, enjoys uncovering the beauty and often-overlooked moments of the natural world. He especially appreciates the opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural surroundings. He finds that patience and a keen eye can turn even the simplest encounters into memorable photographs. For him, moments like this are a reminder that extraordinary beauty can be found in the most ordinary places if we simply take the time to look. Major captured this image with a Canon EOS R1 camera and a Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens. No artificial lighting was used; the photograph was taken entirely in natural daylight.
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Have a fabulous New Hope/Solebury photo? Email it to Lela.Casey@ wainscotmedia.com and it could be featured in an upcoming issue!
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