Ever wondered about the stories hidden in your town’s past? Freeland is hosting an incredible history walk and cemetery tour as part of its 150th-anniversary countdown! Uncover fascinating tales of early leaders and the borough’s founding. What local history would you love to explore?

The borough of Freeland is buzzing with anticipation as its 150th anniversary celebrations gather momentum, promising a series of engaging events leading up to the grand sesquicentennial in September 2026, with a special history walk and cemetery tour offering a unique glimpse into the town’s rich Freeland history and local heritage.

Spearheading these vibrant festivities is the dedicated Freeland 150th Celebration Committee, whose members are meticulously planning each event. Committee President Bobby Maso, a driving force behind the commemorative efforts, passionately believes that these historical initiatives will not only entertain but also deeply connect residents with their community’s enduring legacy.

Scheduled for Saturday at noon, the immersive history walk and cemetery tour invites participants on a journey through Freeland’s significant landmarks, starting and concluding at the borough building on Fern Street. This guided exploration promises to reveal compelling narratives from the town’s early days, shedding light on the individuals who shaped its foundation, making it one of the key Pennsylvania events.

A pivotal segment of the tour will delve into the solemn yet historically rich Pine Street Cemetery, where the gravesites of early leaders and founding families rest. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about figures such as Joseph Birkbeck, the esteemed founder of Freeland, whose gravestone marks a crucial point in the town’s origin story, adding depth to Freeland history.

The tour will also highlight the final resting place of William Birkbeck, son of Joseph Birkbeck, who holds the distinction of being the first individual interred in the Pine Street Cemetery. These personal stories, as explained by committee members like Maso, Mary Llyod, Paula Gallagher, Tara Richvalsky, and James Lucas, weave a vivid tapestry of Freeland’s formative years, enriching its local heritage.

This upcoming event is merely one chapter in a year-long saga of celebratory activities designed to engage the entire community. Kicking off with a successful community cookout and an apple pie baking contest this summer, the committee is committed to hosting monthly gatherings, ensuring sustained excitement until the significant 150th anniversary date.

Maso emphasizes the importance of understanding Freeland’s historical roots, asserting that such events provide invaluable perspective on the borough’s continued relevance and resilience. By showcasing the journeys of its pioneers and the evolution of its community, the celebrations aim to foster a stronger sense of local pride and shared Freeland history.

The Freeland 150th Celebration Committee’s meticulous planning ensures that the spirit of the sesquicentennial resonates deeply within the community, encouraging both long-time residents and newcomers to explore and appreciate the historical fabric that defines Freeland, setting a foundation for future generations to honor its unique story through local heritage and commemorative Pennsylvania events.