A look back: Dec. 13, 1955

Mauch Chunk Borough Council and the Bear Mountain Lions Club last night entered into an agreement under which the service club undertakes caretaker responsibilities at the Asa Packer Mansion and Park.

Prepared by solicitor Thomas Durnin, the agreement will make it possible to enhance the status of the fabulous mansion as a tourist attraction. Proceeds received through fees asked of visitors to the home will go toward renovation and improvements to the home.

The mansion and park were left to the borough by the late Mary Packer Cummings under a $60,000 bequest, however, under the terms of her will, it is possible only to use the interest and not the principal in the care and maintenance of the property.