Local History

Gov. Josh Shapiro unveiled new designs for highway welcome signs and license plates this week, both featuring the Liberty Bell and the phrase "Let Freedom Ring." But it appears history hot spot Easton was left out.

Hellertown Borough's historical society touts the Heller-Wagner Grist Mill, located along West Walnut Street, as one of the oldest landmarks in town. The mill operated into the 1950s.

Members of Skyline Investment Group came to Wilson Borough Council to talk TIFs and other areas of interest around the proposed 1921 at Dixie Avenue apartment project on Monday.

Nearly 250 years ago, Easton was one of three Colonial cities where the newly-adopted Declaration of Independence was read to the public for the first time. On Sunday, the city celebrated its place in history by reading the document again.

Easton is set to extend the patriotic holiday season throughout the weekend with Heritage Day scheduled for Sunday, July 7, featuring historical reenactments, musical performances, food and fireworks.

Easton Farmers' Market will celebrate its 272nd birthday this month with plenty of history and community-oriented events.

Al Granger bought an abandoned Lehigh Valley farm in the 1980s and turned it into a luxurious inn and spa. He was known for his vision and innovation — and for being ultra-tough on those he employed.

The Thunderhawk, one of 10 wooden roller coasters still operating, was built in 1924.

Fans came together at Fairview Cemetery on Saturday to pay homage to actress Jayne Mansfield, star of stage, page, and screen.

Easton City Council approved a resolution that would allow the city to take the historic Hooper House by eminent domain, but officials would prefer not to fall back on that option, hoping discussions with owner Rock Church may be successful.

Over the last three decades, more than 400 farms have been preserved in Lehigh County. The program aims to ward off development and protect open spaces.

Lehigh Valley Friends Meeting, as the Quaker congregation is known, celebrated its 75th birthday Sunday with an open house in Hanover Township, Northampton County.