At around 5:30 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day, residents from across Macungie and surrounding areas began gathering outside Macungie Volunteer Fire Company on South Walnut Street in the borough.

Led by members of Boy Scout Troop 71, they started hiking the 95th Sheeprock Trek 15 minutes later, with flashlights in hand and head lamps lighted to guide them up the trail.

It took just under 45 minutes for everyone to gather at the top of the trail to watch the sunrise over Macungie and listen to a special Thanksgiving service.

“Ninety-five years is an incredible accomplishment. A tradition like this that has been going on for so many years is going to continue with a crowd like this. I know it’s going to continue for another 95 years,” State Rep. Ryan E. Mackenzie, R-187th, said in his Thanksgiving message to everyone as sunlight came through the trees.

This was Mackenzie’s second time doing the trail.

He thanked Boy Scout Troop 71 and all volunteers who gave their time to ensure a successful celebration.

Mackenzie spoke about faith, country, family and community. They are the four things he is thankful for, he said.

After his address, Mackenzie took a few minutes to speak with The Press about the importance of this Thanksgiving tradition.

“This is such a great tradition in our community. It’s an honor to come together as we give thanks and are thankful for all the great things,” Mackenzie said.

Reflecting on the morning, Mackenzie added, “I was just grateful to be together with so many friends and community members on this wonderful Thanksgiving morning.”

He did not rule out attending the 100th annual Sheeprock Trek.

For Allen G. Meck, who delivered the opening prayer, this hiking tradition is personal.

In an interview with The Press, Meck explained, “My dad’s mother and Bill William (Shoemaker), Uncle Bill as our family called him, were brother and sister. And he started it all in 1929.”

According to Meck, his uncle was a humble person.

Meck and his wife, Nancy, praised the work and help from Boy Scout Troop 71 to ensure safety to all participants, including building bridges on the water.

As for the historical local significance of this hike, Meck said, “I want to come every year because it’s so important. It’s growing every year. I don’t know what the number was (today), a couple hundred?

“It felt good to go out and get the fresh air,” reflected Meck, who has been doing this trek since he was a teenager.

“It’s an honor to be part of the family and part of the Macungie community. It’s special. It really is,” he said.