Newcomb Collins Funeral Home Pa

So, I was walking my dog, Biscuit, the other day, and we stumbled upon this old, grand building with a sign that read 'Newcomb Collins Funeral Home'. I mean, it's not every day you find a place that's been around since the 1800s, right? It got me thinking, what's the story behind this place? And thus, our little adventure begins.

Meet Newcomb Collins, the Man Behind the Name

Newcomb Collins, the founder of this historic funeral home, was a man of many trades. Born in 1806, he was a cabinetmaker, a furniture maker, and even a coffin maker on the side. Talk about a jack of all trades! But it wasn't until 1848 that he decided to hang up his carpentry apron and dive headfirst into the funeral business.

Now, you might be wondering, what made him make this switch? Well, according to local lore, Newcomb had a bit of a soft spot for the less fortunate. He'd often make coffins for those who couldn't afford them. One day, he realized he could combine his craftsmanship with his kindness and thus, Newcomb Collins Funeral Home was born.

From Humble Beginnings to a Community Staple

Newcomb started his business in a small, humble building on Main Street. But as the years passed and his reputation grew, so did his business. In 1872, he moved into the grand Victorian building we see today. It's like the funeral home version of 'from rags to riches', isn't it?

Over the years, Newcomb Collins Funeral Home has become more than just a business. It's a community staple, a place where families have come to say their goodbyes for generations. It's like that old friend who's always there when you need them, even if you hope you never do.

Through the Years, Through the Changes

In 1923, the business passed down to Newcomb's grandson, also named Newcomb. He ran it until 1968, when his son, Kenneth, took over. And in 2005, the baton was passed to Kenneth's son, Chris, who's at the helm today. That's four generations of Collins men, serving their community with dignity and respect.

But it's not just the family that's changed over the years. The funeral home has evolved too. It's gone from a small, one-room affair to a sprawling, multi-purpose space that caters to all kinds of funerals and memorial services. It's like watching a child grow up, isn't it? A little bittersweet, a little proud.

More Than Just a Funeral Home

You might think that a place like Newcomb Collins Funeral Home is all doom and gloom. But it's not. It's a place where families come together, where memories are shared, where laughter and tears mingle. It's a place that's seen a lot of life, even if it's not the kind of life we usually celebrate.

So, the next time you walk by that grand old building, remember, it's not just a funeral home. It's a piece of history, a community hub, a testament to a man who decided to use his skills to help others. And who knows, maybe one day, it'll be a part of your story too.