Historic Catasauqua Preservation Association held a community yard sale May 1 at Catasauqua Park and Playground, 501 American St. Tables were free for nonprofits and service organizations. There was no entrance fee.

The 2020 community yard sale was canceled due to COVID-19. The 2021 edition contained a parking lot full of cars and a steady stream of shoppers seeking bargains and perhaps some historical items.

There were various affordable items for sale, ranging from kids toys to jewelry to clothing and household items and even an occasional item that fell into the “What the heck is that?” category.

Blessed are those who compile, advocate for and maintain community historical records for they shall cultivate a sense of joy and completeness for participating in an endeavor larger than themselves - and of great importance to the community.

The HCPA has been a historical centurion since 1983 guarding the history of Catasauqua, a rich history unparalleled in the Lehigh Valley.

The many dedicated folks who watch over with passion the borough’s unique, rich history include Janice Lathrop, Debra Mellish, Shelly Noltor, Jody Thomas, Betsy Hillenbrand, Linda Gotzon and many more.

The 8 Race St., Catasauqua, headquarters is open the first and third Sundays from May through September. Stop in to meet one of the passionate HCPA members, and taste the many flavors of Catasauqua history from those who know.

On the HCPA website, one can read a quote from Martin Luther King Jr.: “We are not makers of history. We are made by history.”

We indeed are in the grand flow of events and the course of the universe, which makes for history. There are people who, through individual achievements, have made history, such as Catasauqua basketball great Larry Miller.

Miller’s round-ball achievements are in the context of an outstanding coach and staff, supporting players and community in an excellent school district. The context erodes the individual achievement as it exposes the rich fabric behind any individual success.

In nearly 40 years of outstanding service, the HCPA has kept watch, expanded its historical reach and lovingly cared for the Biery House and its summer kitchen, Deily Coal Yard, scale house, mule barn and more.

Custodians of their community’s history, HCPA has developed a significant mark of success, coupled with longevity.

For more information about HCPA, visit historiccatasauquahcpa.org.