Young and old had a chance to take a trip back in time on Sunday at the Lansford Historical Society's annual open house.

The yearly event showcases Lansford's rich history, which is deeply rooted in the former coal mining town.Visitors from all over the area had plenty to see as they made their way through the museum, located at 117 E. Bertsch St.This year's open house theme was "The Art of Lansford," which featured scenes from the town depicted on canvas, cloth, photographs, even on slate.Many of the works were done by local residents, including Lansford's Louise Solomon and Renie Novak, whose art showcased miners and historic buildings such as the first council chambers and town lockup.A steady crowd perused through the many artifacts, photographs, and items on display during the three hour event.Dozens walked up and down the aisles, checking out cases crammed with memorabilia from the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company, Lansford High School, and local musicians like Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey, to name a few.Many looked intently at the black and white photographs, seeing if they could recognize who was in the photos from way back when.Something that caught the attention of many was a vintage television, showing highlights from the Coaldale vs. Lansford game, played at the stadium on Thanksgiving Day in 1950.A program from that game was set up on top of the TV for everyone to view.A separate room in the museum will take you back to remember some businesses like Miller's, Newberrys', Brights', Lansford Bottling Works, Will's, and the My Place.Some recent items that were brought to the museum were from Yurick's Mity-Fine Bakery, a business on Cortright Street that served the Panther Valley for over 50 years.Residents from the west end could recall the smell of the bread baking there every morning.One visitor remembered getting four loaves of the tasty bread for $1 at Cebulak's Market on Sharpe Street.Visitors were also able to see an amazing lighted stained glass display that was completed just in time for the open house. The 130-year-old windows were once part of the Edward Thomas mansion on East. Bertsch Street, which later became St. Ann's convent.Lansford craftsman and society member Bruce Markovich, spent over 200 hours repairing the three windows and crafting the display cases.The windows, which contain a rare blend of mystic blue and red ochre glass, were once located on the landing of the mansion's grand staircase, and now sit above the museum's doorway.The historical society recovered the windows in 2009, before the convent's demolition. The window display is one example of the society's goal of preserving Lansford's architectural past.President Bill Harleman was pleased with the event."We had a great turnout and a lot of positive comments about our museum. The place looks better than ever and we can be proud of what we have in Lansford."The museum is open Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m. Hours will be expanding to Fridays in the near future. Tours are also available by appointment.Check out the Lansford Historical Society group page on Facebook.For more information or if you have something you would like to donate to the museum, contact 570-617-4683.