Local History

Jack Bennett grew up in the family hardware business and went on to lead it for nearly 25 years. He was one of Easton's most prominent business leaders in the 1970s and '80s. He died Jan. 29 at age 98. Friends say he left an impression on the Downtown business community that still can be felt today.

Sal Panto Sr. was the father of Mayor Sal Panto Jr. and longtime proprietor of Sal's Meat Market on College Hill.

Hear firsthand the stories of a longtime family-run bakery this Saturday.

As America approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we take a look back at the role Allentown played in hiding the Liberty Bell from British troops during the Revolutionary War.

Jessica "Jess" Lee, 67, served PBS39 viewers in the Lehigh Valley for nearly a half-century. The Bethlehem native and Liberty High alum died Thursday after a battle with cancer. She joined the station in 1980.

Easton's Planning Commission recommended the Zoning Hearing Board approve a subdivision of the Hooper House and Timothy House lot at their Wednesday meeting.

Keith Lampman-Perlman, who often goes by “KLP,” recently was appointed as the 176-year-old cemetery’s new executive director, a role focused on community engagement, preservation and fundraising.

Historic Hotel Bethlehem on Main Street again will only partially illuminate its rooftop sign from Christmas Eve to Christmas night — a tradition that goes back decades and was forgotten, until its revival a few years ago.

Easton's Zoning Hearing Board approved a subdivision of the Hooper House property Monday, which will let the Rock Church keep an adjoining parcel that contains the Timothy House.

"The Vault" is Lehigh Valley Public Media’s collection of original PBS39 programming through the years, plus community content made in the Lehigh Valley. Several programs are in PBS39's Friday night lineup through the end of the year.