Memories were stroked and friendships forged and renewed as the Northampton Liederkranz celebrated the club's centennial.

During the event, mugs of the golden brew were hoisted high as "Ein Prosit" rang out by many looking forward to the club's bright future for decades to come.

Building on the foundation which began in October 1911, officers and board members demonstrated the club's roots continue to be cemented with the Burgenland state in Austria and villages such as Stegersbach.

Mayor Thomas Reenock proclaimed Aug. 18 Northampton Liederkranz Day in the borough. He peered out onto the street where a mix of children, parents and seniors gathered with faces as bright as sun and blue skies.

The Liederkranz officers and board mingled with visitors enjoying polkas and rock music compliments of the bands on stage.

State Rep. Julie Harhart, D-183rd, presented the Liederkranz with a state House of Representatives citation recognizing its 100 years of operation. Harhart said the club holds a special meaning for her because she was married there.

Men such as Frank Spitzer, past president of the Liederkranz, recalled the numerous times he played Austrian polkas, waltzes and ethnic music at the club with his button box accordion.

During the brief ceremony, Robert "Fuzzy" Harder was presented with a plaque by the club for his 30 years of service as president, a post he still holds.

Visitors enjoyed ethnic food including bratwurst, cabbage and noodles and German potato salad. Toasts with Yeagermeister were made and, inside the club, memorabilia, pictures and artifacts drew the interest of many.

The club began with 120 members, most of whom immigrated from Austria to the United States and Northampton, finding jobs in the cement mills.

Music and singing was the basis for the club's formation, keeping ties with its Burgenland families and traditions.