A hearty group of Lansford folks, endowed with the same pioneer spirit as the rugged Panther Valley coal miners of yesteryear who built the town’s first church in 1850, didn’t let the bitter cold of winter interfere with its dedication of the restored sign identifying the small clapboard building that is taking on a bright, new look.

Some 75 people cheered softly as the wooden sign that has withstood a battering from the weather since 1985, was returned to its original place of prominence above the main doors of the Welsh Congregational Church.

The ceremony took place exactly 135 years from the day the church was dedicated.