Earlier this year — Feb. 12 — Bath Borough was recognized by the National Register of Historic Places designating a National Historic District within the borough.

Bath Borough Council President Frank Hesch, Mayor Fiorella Reginelli Mirabito and borough Manager Brad Flynn welcomed those gathered Nov. 16 to unveil the official signage, installed above street signs in the area. The official unveiling was at Walnut and Center streets, and the signs were funded by Northampton County.

Bath Borough was founded in 1737.

“This is a remarkable milestone for Bath history,” Hesch said. “This honor shines a light on our community. It is a testament to our enduring spirit. For over two centuries, Bath has been a crossroads community that welcomed residents, businesses and merchants. Residents, businesses and others, this recognition will be celebrated in the future. Thank you all for attending. We are part of living history.”

Reginelli Mirabito provided remarks and offered thanks for all who worked on the effort to achieve the historical designation. Flynn explained the boundaries of the designated historical district and also offered praise for the tenacity of the many who worked on the effort.

The National Park Service, an agency with the U.S. Department of the Interior, is the parent of the National Register of Historic Places. The register is the official list of our country’s historic buildings, districts, sites, structures and objects worthy of preservation for their historical significance or great artistic value and deemed worthy of preservation.

Hesch recounted the pursuit for state historical recognition. In time, the state recommended Bath for historical recognition to the National Register of Historical Places, which evaluated the history and significance of the borough. After the National Register made the selection, the National Historical District within Bath was developed Feb. 12.

Bath Borough formed the Historic Architectural Review Board in 1998. The board labored to help create and grow the historic district in Bath.

Several years ago, Bath Borough Council held a residents’ contest to adopt a borough motto. The winning selection for the Bath motto was “History, Nestled with Friendship.”

The unveiling event was filled with celebration and goodwill. The community pride was tangible in the joy and excitement at the event.