The Coaldale Historical Society received a $6,000 donation from borough native Bill Scutta and his wife, Loretta.

“We are very grateful for their generosity,” said Bob Perrin, president and founder of the historical society. “Bill continues to be a great supporter.”

The funds will go toward renovations and repairs at the proposed Coaldale Historical Society Museum.

The Scuttas, who live near Philadelphia, also gifted the society with a rare 1920 Koken barbershop chair that was used for years at the former Johnny Brunda’s Barber Shop in Coaldale. Perrin said it is in great condition, right down to its pristine leather headrest.

“You can’t find them like this nowadays,” Perrin said.

He recalled the barbershop, which was operated by the Brunda family for three generations. It was next to the historic Angela Theatre on East Phillips Street.

“When you went into Johnny Brunda’s Barbershop it was like stepping into Coaldale history,” he said. “The walls were covered by Coaldale High School football memorabilia and other pieces of Coaldale past.”

Perrin plans to use the chair and related items in a barbershop display once the museum is open.

While Perrin founded the society about two decades ago, there was no spot in the borough to showcase antiques and collectibles. He has been displaying them at the Lansford Historical Society Museum.

This summer, he received news he had wished for: Mark Floodgate, owner of Elk Lighting, wanted to give the society property at the corner of Sixth Street and West Early Avenue in Coaldale.

The society was quick to accept.

Before they can relocate, they need to have the building renovated and upgraded. A few months ago, the society launched a fundraising campaign. It is accepting donations to the Coaldale Historical Society at P.O. Box 83, Coaldale, PA., 18218, or by contacting coaldalehistoricalsociety@yahoo.com.

Perrin’s goal is not only to have a museum but to open the large building to the community.

He noted that society board members will soon hear from Robert “Ski” Siesputowski, founder of the Navy Club of Carbon County, and other veterans about the possibility of having a museum that focuses on veterans from the Panther Valley.

Perrin said he’s looking forward to the opportunity to help the veterans.