Catasauqua and North Catasauqua will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Old Home Week during the Fourth of July holiday week with family-centered activities to welcome former and present residents and friends of the borough.

In 1914, the first Old Home Week marked the 75th anniversary of the Crane Iron Works.

The hot blast technology used in Crane's iron furnace catapulted the community and the surrounding area to the forefront of the new iron industry signaling the beginning of the Industrial Revolution.

The wealth stemming from the vibrant economy ushered in economic prosperity that allowed the borough to raise one million dollars to support World War I.

The war bond contribution earned Catasauqua the nickname "Million Dollar Town."

Festivities kick off June 27 and close July 6.

The planning committee invites past residents, alumni and anyone who worked in the borough to return to Catasauqua and share in the celebration of Catasauqua's rich heritage.

The Old Home 2014 Committee issued a list of its planned activities.

June 27: St. John Street Park party opens the festivities featuring music by the Large FlowerHeads sponsored by the Catasauqua American Legion Post 215.

June 28: Catasauqua Block Party and 5K race sponsored by the Main Street business association with entertainment by the Blackbird Society Orchestra, sponsored by the Gas House Dance Hall and local band Prugal. During the day, there will be memorabilia displays throughout the business district. The day will be capped off with a square dance and barbecue at Willow Brook Farms. Tickets for the dance and barbecue will be available in advance.

June 29: A family day at St. John Park starting with a community worship service, YMCA games and Arts/Crafts/History displays. Music throughout the day will be presented by Tavern Tan, Common Bond and more.

July 3: Fun for adults with a Pub Crawl through Catasauqua and North Catasauqua taverns.

July 4: Reading of the Declaration of Independence at the George Taylor House. Music by the Antebellum Marine Band.

July 5: J4 Celebration at North Catasauqua Park, an all-day mega reunion of all Catasauqua alumni.

July 6: Historical Catasauqua Preservation Association's semiannual Historic House and Garden Tour.

For more information, visit the Facebook event Catasauqua Old Home Week 2014.

Old Home Week sponsors include Catasauqua Old Home Week Committee, HCPA, Catasauqua Mainstreets, Suburban North Family YMCA, Catasauqua American Legion Post 215, Gas House Dance Hall and the Borough of Catasauqua. Additional funding is provided by Lehigh County Tourism.