By Frank Sinatra, AAP Editor
On February 18, 1892, the State of New Jersey officially created the municipality known as Pennsauken Township. A lot has changed in Pennsauken during the last 125 years: the population has boomed to over 35,000 people from diverse cultures and backgrounds; over the last six years, businesses have invested over $100 million into the community; the town was identified as one of the top 40 commuter cities in New Jersey, with access to several major highways and three train stations; and has been home to professional athletes, prominent educators, successful business people, talented artists, and dedicated public servants.
To celebrate Pennsauken’s past, as well as to get excited about the Township’s future, a variety of events are being planned as part of a year-long, community-wide celebration.
“Pennsauken has a rich heritage that’s worthy of celebration,” says Pennsauken Mayor Betsy McBride. “We look forward to our neighbors coming together to recognize our town’s 125th birthday.”
To kick off this year of celebration, Mayor McBride will issue a special proclamation on Saturday, Feb. 18, 12:30 p.m. at the Pennsauken Free Public Library, 5605 N. Cresecent Blvd. During the event, Pennsauken native and Food Network star Al DiBartolo of DiBartolo Bakery will be on hand to cut the first piece of the “birthday cake” specifically designed for the occasion; pieces of cake will be handed out free to residents until it runs out.
The Township plans to celebrate Pennsauken’s milestone anniversary in a variety of ways in the coming months. Here’s what’s being planned so far:
- The Merchantville-Pennsauken Water Commission is installing a special 125th anniversary logo on its three million-gallon water tank, located on the corner of Park Ave. and Haddonfield Rd.
- Special banners commemorating Pennsauken’s 125th anniversary, which can be hung inside or outside of area businesses, are being offered to companies for purchase
- As part of the Friends of the Pennsauken Free Public Library 10th annual Art Show and Sale this April, the organization is asking for submissions with a “Pennsauken” theme
- The Township is looking into having a marching band-only parade, date to be determined, with high schools from across our region participating
- A special “Pennsauken-opoly” game, filled with Township landmarks, is being developed as a keepsake for residents
- Banners with the 125th anniversary logo will line Westfield Ave. for the entire year
- The Pennsauken Historical Society is working to create a special retrospective on the town’s history, details to be forthcoming
- “Our Town,” the 1950s-era film that highlighted Pennsauken, will be aired on Channel 19; in addition, a new video, “Our Town… Today,” will be produced by Pennsauken Television
- Pennsauken High School’s Chorus will be performing a vocal tribute to the Township, singing popular songs from a variety of different eras
As a signature event, the Township is also planning a gigantic community-wide celebration on Saturday, June 10. This event is not just for current residents; this party, filled with family-friendly entertainment, delicious food offerings and musical performances, is also a “homecoming” for those who have moved away from town.
“We hope that both past and present residents join us for what should be a great party,” says Bill Orth, Township Committeeman. “While Feb. 18 is the actual date, holding a community-wide celebration in June enables many more of our neighbors and friends to enjoy the festivities.”
All Around Pennsauken will be your source for information about events commemorating the town’s 125th anniversary. In addition, each month will feature a look back at Pennsauken, including classic photos and special articles. For more details, visit page 6 in this issue. The Township will also be providing additional details via social media and online at http://www.twp.pennsauken.nj.us/content/125-years.
