The borough of Lehighton was founded 150 years ago on Jan. 2, 1866.

On Saturday afternoon the celebration began in earnest.Residents, along with state and town officials gathered on Constitution Avenue, to celebrate the past, present and future of the historical town.Under the hot summer sun folks donned hoop skirts and top hats. Borough manager Nicole Beckett welcomed the crowd surrounding the municipal building and introduced the speakers for the opening ceremony of the eight-day event.Beckett thanked the Sesquicentennial Committee for its dedication and hard work on the weeklong commemoration then turned the microphone over to committee Chairman Clark Ritter, who served as emcee for the celebration kickoff.High school student Courtney Arce sang an a cappella version of the national anthem before Borough Council President Grant Hunsicker recognized the committee for its efforts in creating the summer event.“I just want to thank everyone who took part in putting the whole thing together,” he said.Proclamations were presented by state Sen. John Yudichak, D-Carbon/Luzerne, and 122nd District state Rep. Doyle Heffley, R-Carbon.“The passion for the revitalization of Lehighton is illustrated in numerous community projects,” Yudichak said.“All of these projects add up to one simple fact, the good people of Lehighton are united in their commitment to a peaceful, progressive and prosperous community.”During his proclamation, Heffley reminisced about buying his Cub Scout uniform at Bright’s department store and thanked the committee for organizing the celebration.Lehighton Borough Shade Tree Commission Chairman Mark Hoffman spoke about the effort required for the celebration.“This was a big endeavor. I know a lot of work went into it,” said Hoffman.The commission has worked to plant 150 trees in town to mark Lehighton’s momentous anniversary. Hoffman directed the audience to where the commission planted the 149th tree. The red maple was dedicated to all past and future residents, Hoffman said.“We wanted to plant trees today to symbolize beauty of the tree but also the roots. It’s the people of Lehighton who wanted to plant the roots to grow and prosper. This is our chance to write the history that people will talk about 50 years later,” said Hoffman.Committee Co-Chairman Duane Dellecker announced the events that are scheduled through out the week and encouraged all residents to attend.Events will include a scavenger hunt, a hoop rolling contest, cook-off, hat fashion show. Music will be performed by local bands every night in the park. The weeklong celebration will come to an end Saturday night with a massive fireworks display.“The fireworks will be able to be seen from almost anywhere in town,” Dellecker said.Committee Secretary Autumn Abelovsky thanked all the sponsors who contributed to the celebration.“This is a steppingstone,” said borough Councilman Joe Flickinger.“There are still small businesses in this town and a lot of civic organizations chipped in,” he said. “The celebration is a point where we can reflect on the last 150 years and look forward to the next 150.”