The Spring-Ford Area Historical Society surprised longtime member Mildred “Mille” Weigner with a 100th birthday celebration Sunday afternoon at the society’s Main Street headquarters in Royersford.
Weigner, who turns 100 on May 26, was joined by more than 40 people — including family members, local officials, historical society volunteers, and community residents — during the gathering, which included proclamations, birthday cards, and remarks recognizing her decades of service and connection to the Spring-Ford community.
When historical society member Dave Willauer began the day’s presentation, it was clear that humor could be part of Weigner’s secret to longevity.
“She said she's meeting a lot of new people,” Willauer said of Weigner. “And she's going to try to remember names, but she can't guarantee it, because after 100 years…”
“The drawers are full,” Weigner said.
Recognitions From Local and State Officials
Among those attending were State Rep. Joe Ciresi, Royersford Mayor Alex Metricarti, and Spring City Mayor Adam Alberico, each of whom presented Weigner with official recognitions.
Ciresi presented a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives honoring Weigner’s many years of commitment to the Spring-Ford area and the Commonwealth.
“It’s a great honor to see someone who not only celebrates their birthday, but is committed to the community and still active in the community,” Ciresi said.
The celebration also included greetings sent from Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, along with more than 100 birthday cards collected from residents and students at Royersford Elementary School.
Metricarti praised Weigner’s involvement with the historical society and her participation in the organization’s Senior Memories project, which documents local history through residents’ firsthand accounts.
“How lovely of you to participate with the historical society to be a live witness to so much that they talk about,” Metricarti told Weigner. “They know who to call if they have questions about things that happened long ago.”
Willauer noted that Weigner’s memories have been preserved in the society’s research library, including stories about growing up in Creamery in Skippack Township.
“We’re really appreciative of the fact that you took the time to do that,” he said to Weigner.
Alberico also reflected on the appreciation many in the community feel toward Weigner, extending goodwill from Spring City officials.
“When we went to the borough and told them about your birthday, they were just ecstatic,” Alberico said. “I think we all are here. And it’s a testament for everyone here today to show the appreciation you have given to our community.”
“Don’t Worry”
Later in the celebration, Weigner was asked the secret to reaching 100 years old.
“I don’t have any secret. I just got here,” she replied, drawing laughs from the crowd.
She went on to reflect on growing up on a farm, living off homegrown food, and spending decades volunteering in the community.
“Time just rolls along. I worked all my life,” Weigner said, noting that after she retired, she spent more than 30 years volunteering at the Community Service Center in Fairview Village and 15 at the Open Door Ministry in Royersford, “giving food and clothing and household items to people.”
Her advice for longevity was simple.
“It’s just living each day, enjoying yourself,” she said. “Don’t worry, because that doesn’t help us any.”
