Sigal Marks First Birthday

Town Crier David Rose led the procession of fife and drum, an Easton Fire Company squad and Civil War re-enactors into in downtown Easton Saturday morning to deliver the news: was a year old.

Rose made stops around the Easton Farmers Market to announce that Northampton County history was alive and well -- and on display -- a block up the street with numerous programs throughout the weekend.

"We need to promote it more and get people through here," Mayor Sal Panto said during a ceremony in front of the museum following the procession. "If people know their history, they will have a much better appreciation about living here and taking care of things."

The mayor congratulated the Northampton County Historical and Genealogical Society, which owns and operates the 33,000-square-foot facility at 342 Northampton St., and museum executive director Barbara Kowitz for their efforts in the past year.

"We are grateful to the city, the county and the state for all of their support and to the businesses, individuals and organizations who have made contributions. Thanks to all of you for getting us to this point."
State Rep. Robert Freeman said he was proud to celebrate the museum's anniversary.

"This is a tremendous asset to the revitalization of Easton," Freeman said. "It's a wonderful facility offering a tremendous window to the past."

Freeman, who was a history major in college, stressed its importance.
"It can't be underscored," he said. "The past has shaped our present. It has given us a path. It creates culture and revitalization and does so much to make us aware of those who came before us."

State Sen. Bob Mensch also offered congratulations.

"As I walked to the square, I kept thinking that we were walking with history," he said. "I hope I'm here for the 100th anniversary."

Freeman presented a proclamation to Kowitz, who later showcased a birthday cake.

"It feels great starting year two," Kowitz said after the ceremony. "It's exciting and wonderful. It's a nice conclusion to year one. Happy history!"

Sunday's programs feature a portrayal of Mary Todd Lincoln by Melissa Rabinsky at 11 a.m.; a talk on "Easton Then and Now" at 1 p.m. and a history lecture by Richard Hope at 2:30 p.m.

The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and  from noon to 4 p.m. On Sunday. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for children under 12.

For more information, contact the museum at 610-258-2601.