Northampton Township celebrates 300 years!

On Dec. 14, 1772, a petition was granted by the Quarter Sessions Court at Bristol to establish a new township on the lands lying ‘between Southampton Township and other lands and the Neshaminy Creek,’ and Northampton Township was born. With a slogan of “Cherishing the Past, Celebrating the Present and Welcoming the Future”, Northampton Township’s 300th Committee has developed a variety of programs focusing on the township’s rich history, providing opportunities for residents to embrace the community spirit.

“The 300th committee is thrilled to see the many activities, programs and events come together,” said Nancy Opalka, the director of Parks and Recreation. “During our planning, we have all learned so much about the history of Northampton Township. We are excited to be able to pass on the information we learned and compiled and even more thrilled to see our residents participate in the events planned to commemorate the 300th anniversary.”

Celebrate Northampton Township’s 300th Anniversary with Northampton Township departments, local schools, organizations, and various businesses in the Community. By visiting the 300th website: Northamptontownship.com, you will uncover weekly features such as Tuesday Trivia, Fun Fact Fridays and Story Sundays. There is a GPS Map locating historic sites in the Township with added historical facts. Information on all events, along with registration options, can be found on the website.

A Flag Day ceremony took place in June with a dedication of the Nike Missile Site at the Civic Center. Informational panels will be installed at the area for all to view. A summer reading program was held at the Free Library of Northampton Twp. with a goal of 300 books. The James E. Kinney Senior Center held presentations on Colonial weaving and wool spinning.

The celebration continues into the Fall: A history walk depicting the beginnings of the Township can be found at the Northampton Municipal Park where educational panels line the pathways.

September brings a variety of 300th opportunities: On September 17 enjoy a free open of programs: The Recreation Center will have a colonial kitchen, candle and soap making demos, visit a Lenape Village at Churchville Nature Center, the Langhorne Rod & Gun Club will host archery, trap shooting and more with historical reenactor Mike Jesberger displaying a Revolutionary encampment complete with tents, flags, camps, muskets and interactive scenarios. The Police will open their doors for tours of their new headquarters from 10-2. Be sure to register for a time slot. September 18 brings the Penn’s Wood Puppet Theater to the Municipal Park with apple pressing and an ice social.

The next weekend continues to be packed starting with an outdoor FunFest on Friday, September 23 at the Civic Center, featuring the music of local Northampton grown, and now accomplished music artists, Matt Freedman and the Herd and Rae Radick. Enjoy local craft breweries, food trucks, vendors, and games. Admission is free, however a purchased wristband is required to access the spirited beverages area with details on the website.

There will be and Open House on September 24 at the James E. Kinney Senior Center offering a Fashion Show through the ages along with the colonial Tucker Band, make-a-craft and Renaissance refreshments. The Free Library of Northampton will be active with a Nursery Rhyme Breakfast, a presentation of Northampton’s history by the Historical Commission with local historian Annie Halliday of the Mercer Museum speaking about early Northampton Township. The Tri-Hampton Rescue Squad will offer “ Stop the Bleed” and CPR demos, and the Police Building tours will again be offered. Open houses are free to all. Check the website for details and times.

Sunday, September 25 will bring the annual Northampton Day festival, held at the former Richboro Middle ( New Star School) grounds on Upper Holland Road.

Friday, Oct. 14, Northampton Valley Country Club will be the site of A History Mystery Gala. Displays of Northampton Township’s rich history, signature cocktails from the famous Doan Brothers and a Who Dun It? Dining Experience will take you back in time. Tickets are $85 per person, available online.

On Saturday, Oct. 15, the Municipal Park will host Fire Prevention Day and Bucket Brigade from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fire trucks, old and new, will be on display along with an old-fashioned Bucket Brigade.

November will bring Trivia Nights at the Library on November 9 and Northampton Country Club’s Tavern on Ten on November 16. Brush up on historical tidbits to be a contender to win it all.

The final celebration, on the a 300th Anniversary date of Dec. 14, will take place at the Township Supervisor’s meeting. A reenactment of the original document signing will take place, along with proclamations marking this historic date, ending this special year shared with Northampton’s residents.

Visit the 300th at: northamptontownship.com