Bath Borough touts itself as “the hub of Northampton County.” Established in 1728 - well before the American Revolution - Bath has a long, rich history.

Concerned citizens and local elected officials have been working hard to develop the Bath Historical District.

Their efforts are paying off.

Pennsylvania Preservation Inc., the commonwealth’s only statewide, private, nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection of historically and architecturally significant properties, has awarded Bath Borough a 2016 Special Focus Award for Grassroots Advocacy.

The Joseph Steckel House, 101 S. Chestnut St., built in 1813, is the recognized property.

Council member Carol Bear-Heckman and her husband, Darrin, are strong advocates of the historic district and business development in Bath.

The Heckmans submitted the application for the award.

Bear-Heckman possesses a tireless passion for historical preservation in Bath. Since moving to Bath, she has spent countless hours investigating and advocating for the historical district.

Upon learning of Bath’s recognition, Bear-Heckman said, “Thanks to so many people working so hard to bring this little historic borough to its potential and letting it shine.”

A group from Bath will be traveling to York this month to accept the award.