Lansford’s No. 9 Mine and Museum was officially opened as the newest tourist attraction in the area during an impressive ceremony held Saturday morning.

David Kuchta, president of the Panther Creek Valley Foundation, which manages the facility that sits on the border of Lansford and Coaldale, was the main speaker and master of ceremonies for the opening program.

He recounted the trials and tribulations that met the dedicated men who dreamed of reopening the mine as a tourist attraction and offered profuse thanks to the many who came to their aid.

In all, 20 people and organizations were recognized for their contributions in making the attraction a reality.