Since 1973, Hallmark Keepsake ornaments have provided visual representation of the things we treasure in life, immortalized each Christmas season on a tree or tabletop. It all started with the release of six decorated glass ball ornaments and 12 yarn ornaments.
“We actually began testing the marketplace the year prior,” Hallmark historian and archivist Samantha Bradbeer Stephens explains. “In December of 1972, we placed four glass ball ornaments with decorative bands featuring original illustrations from Hallmark artists into select stores. They flew off the shelves. So, by 1973, we officially were in the ornament business and launched a line featuring 12 yarn ornaments and
