Bear with us for a short history lesson in olde-timey Pennsylvania laws (not just the liquor one). Once upon a time, it was prohibited for funeral homes to be named anything other than the last name of the owner. In the case of West Laurel Hill Cemetery, their full name was Bringhurst Funeral Home at West Laurel Hill Cemetery – which is a mouthful, we know. It also created some confusion amongst the community. Due to the recent law change (details here), they were able to rename themselves, simply, West Laurel Hill. So naturally, we used it as an excuse to celebrate! It was a rainy evening on Thursday, September 29, but a little precipitation didn’t stop West Laurel Hill’s Garden Party!
Guests were treated to amazing food by Bourbon Blue. They toasted to the future of West Laurel Hill with only the best spirits, graciously donated by Chaddsford Winery and Terrapin Beer Co! Drew Nugent and the Midnight Society wowed the crowd with their prohibition-style sounds. Guests dined, danced, and even participated in a fun scavenger hunt filled with historic WLH clues. Winners of the hunt won great prizes, such as delectable chocolates, a Phillies fan pack, and a gift basket from Chaddsford Winery (complete with a wine tasting for 4).
Speeches were given by West Laurel Hill President, Pete Hoskins, and other notable staff members. Hoskins toasted the accomplishments of his staff over the years, and he spoke about the vibrant future of WLH. Upcoming plans include the opening of their pet cemetery in the spring, and the continued dedication to the very community they serve.
West Laurel Hill is a non-profit organization which hosts fundraisers for other local non-profits. Most recently, WLH held their annual Derby Party and raised $7,000 for Hope Springs Equestrian Therapy Inc. Hope Springs ‘ mission is to provides horse therapy for autistic children and others with mental disabilities. Be sure to check out some more upcoming awesome fall events at WLH.
It was a wonderful evening to celebrate a dedicated group of people who have kept the integrity of West Laurel Hill to the caliber that it is today. Cheers to another 100 years of servicing their community and families in need!
