Community Icons Honored As 'Sisters Of History' By Doylestown Borough

DOYLESTOWN BOROUGH, PA — Doylestown Borough this week recognized two of its longtime residents for their lasting impact on the community.

In celebration of Women's History Month, Mayor Noni West joined borough council in issuing a proclamation honoring Doreen and Judith Stratton as "Sisters of History" and celebrating their lifelong dedication to local history, civic engagement, and community service.

The Strattons have maintained deep roots in the community for generations. Their family moved to 186 East Ashland Street in 1887. Lillie Stratton later purchased the home in 1923. Today, the sisters refer to the residence as "A Woman's Place," a visible center for their advocacy and efforts to encourage local involvement.

In presenting the proclamation, Mayor West called the sisters "icons" of the community. She also introduced a Town Crier, who officially read the proclamation to the community.

The proclamation recognizes Doreen Stratton for her extensive work in local politics and civic life. She served as a longtime committee person in the borough. She is also an active historian who focuses on the Underground Railroad and the Lenape people in Doylestown.

Doreen served as an original member of the borough's Human Relations Board, where she worked to foster inclusion and understanding within the town.

Her work and advocacy in the community earned her this year's Bucks County Women's History Award, which is given to a woman who has shown herself to be a role model with outstanding leadership in a volunteer capacity.

Keeping with the America25o theme this year, a Town Crier reads the proclamation to the community.

Judith Stratton has focused her efforts on protecting and enhancing natural spaces in the borough. She is a master gardener who served on the Shade Tree Commission for more than 14 years. Her work has helped safeguard "the noble trees that grace our streets."

Judith also maintains the Ashland Street community garden. She remains actively involved with the Village Improvement Association and the historic James Lorah House.

"Through many decades of advocacy, stewardship, and service, the sisters have exemplified the spirit of engaged citizenship," the proclamation reads.

In presenting the proclamation, Mayor West and Borough Council members extended their gratitude to the pair for their dedication to preserving local history. They also thanked the sisters for their commitment to strengthening the community and inspiring future generations.