Parryville celebrated its 150th anniversary as a community on Saturday.

Fire companies from around the area, the historical society, dignitaries, and many of Parryville’s 450 residents were in attendance.

Although Parryville wasn’t formally established until 1875, the town’s rich history dates back almost 100 years before that.

Along the Pohopoco Creek, a stone gristmill was built in 1781. Parryville became a key shipping hub and an anthracite blast center. Photos and other antique items were on display to tell some of the story of Parryville’s history.

The celebration got underway at noon in the Carl Wolter III playground. A DJ played music starting at 1 p.m. At 2:45 p.m., a firetruck parade took place. In addition to Parryville firefighters, the Lehighton, Bowmanstown, and Franklin Township fire companies took part in the parade and other festivities.

The Parryville Fire Company has been serving its community and the surrounding areas since 1972. Chief Mike Kunkle takes pride in keeping the town safe.

“We always say that Parryville is a small town with a big heart,” Kunkle said. “Most of our firefighters come from other towns, so we take pride in supporting other communities.”

“We have a limited budget from the town, so we have always relied on fundraisers to keep the doors open,” Kunkle added.

Dignitaries offering congratulations included Congressman Ryan Mackenzie, state Rep. Doyle Heffley, Carbon County Commissioner Chairman Michael Sofranko, and Carbon County judge Stephen Serfass.

Congressman Mackenzie presented a certified letter from Congress to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Parryville. Mackenzie discussed the historical significance of Parryville, noting that local people were coal mining, raising families, serving their country, and building communities for a century and a half.

Rep. Heffley recalled a heartwarming tale of his great-grandmother living in Parryville, reciting her saying about the town: “Up the hill, down the hill, that’s the way to Parryville,” Heffley said.

Heffley went on to express how Parryville is a valuable part of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Food trucks were also on site, including Caribbean Noodles, Taste of Tall Oaks, Milk Train, and Kitty Kat Concessions. The Boy Scout Troop 8 out of Parryville and the local Lions Club were also selling refreshments. Seven Sirens Brewery/The Riverwalk was selling beer from their brewery to those 21 and older.