The Formation of the Coopersburg Historical Society

The Coopersburg Historical Society was founded in 1978 as Coopersburg prepared to celebrate its centennial year. Under the leadership of Dr. Hellerich and historian Evelyn Borger, residents came together with a vision to preserve and share the borough's rich history with future generations.

On June 14, 1978, the Coopersburg Borough Council formally recognized the Historical Society as the coordinating group for the upcoming centennial celebration. Just weeks later, on July 12, 1978, council members signed the society's official charter, bringing the organization to life. The society was formally incorporated on May 29, 1979.

From the beginning, the Historical Society demonstrated remarkable community spirit and ambition. Early projects included hosting "historical bingo" with local history questions, conducting a comprehensive architectural survey of the borough's historic buildings, and securing quarters in the town hall to display artifacts and documents. The society worked closely with the Lehigh County Historical Society and received generous donations from community groups, including valuable historical materials from the Odd Fellows Lodge.

In 1979, the society launched its first Heritage Day festival. This was an old-fashioned community picnic featuring crafts, baked goods, children's games, entertainment, and a cake walk. This inaugural event established what would become an annual tradition celebrating Coopersburg's heritage and bringing the community together.