Our History
GOING BACK IN TIME
Our History
The history of Hartenstein Funeral & Cremation Care is a story of dedication, craftsmanship, and more than 135 years of service to the families of Southern York County, Pennsylvania.
Our origins date back to the late 19th century, when George Lewis Hartenstein, a skilled Philadelphia cabinetmaker, settled in York County and purchased a furniture and undertaking business in 1885. From his shop—known as the “Old Reliable Furniture and Carpet House”—George built fine furniture and coffins by hand, establishing a reputation for quality and compassion that laid the foundation for the Hartenstein funeral tradition.
In 1907, leadership passed to George’s son, Paul N. Hartenstein, who later partnered with his brother-in-law, Curvin Nonemaker. After their passing, Paul’s widow Bessie and their son J. Jacob “Jake” Hartenstein took the reins, guiding the business through continued growth. In 1952, Jake opened a new funeral home in New Freedom, expanding service capabilities for the community.
The fourth generation joined the firm in 1964, when James J. “Jim” Hartenstein became a licensed funeral director and later assumed leadership. Under his direction, the business evolved, incorporated, and expanded again with the acquisition of the Kenneth W. Orsburn Funeral Home in Stewartstown. Jim’s children, James J. Hartenstein III and Jennifer Hartenstein McGraw, later joined the operation, strengthening the family tradition of dedicated service.
Today, Hartenstein Funeral & Cremation Care continues to honor the principles established in the 1880s—compassion, integrity, craftsmanship, and commitment to community. While the business has grown and changed over the decades, the caregiving team families have come to know and trust remains devoted to providing exceptional, personalized service to Southern York County and beyond.
