Friends, family and staff members gathered on April 11 to celebrate the 100th birthday of Eleanor "Ellie" Hammond at Tel Hai Retirement Community in Honey Brook. Also in attendance at the special event was Rep. Dan Williams, who presented Ellie with a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

Ellie, who was born on April 13, 1925, was joined at the party by her daughters Lesley Durr, who resides in a cottage at Tel Hai, and Toni Finch, who attended with her husband, Earl Finch. Toni's twin sister, Becky Singer, was unable to attend. In addition to three children, Ellie has two grandchildren.

The party included cake; a rendition of "Happy Birthday" by Tel Hai residents and staff members; and a prayer offered by David Hicks, Tel Hai chaplain.

"It is an honor to celebrate your 100th year," said Williams, who then read the citation, which stated, in part, "The House of Representatives is pleased to recognize those individuals who through their wisdom and experience have contributed to the enrichment and betterment of succeeding generations. Mrs. Hammond has demonstrated the highest ideals of citizenship and truly deserves special recognition."

Ellie, who was born in New Jersey, was married to the late John Hammond, who was a lineman for PECO Energy. "They attended high school together in Coatesville," noted Durr.

During World War II, Ellie worked as a draftsman for the Lukens Steel Company in Coatesville. "It was an exciting experience working in the mill. We were making steel plates for ships," she said. "If parts were broken, they brought them to me, and I would draw them, and they would make (the replacements)."

She was later employed as a secretary in the discipline and attendance offices of the Coatesville Area School District. "I worked in the school district for many principals," she said, noting that the office sometimes dealt with children with bad behaviors. "I found out something about kids - they are all good somewhere. There is something good in everybody. I think I was understanding because I had three children."

Ellie was a member of St. Cecilia's in Coatesville and was active in her community. She was a volunteer at the local voting polls in Caln Township for many years.

Ellie said she has always enjoyed sewing, knitting, reading, making crafts and cooking, noting that her best dish is spaghetti with clam sauce.

When asked her secret to a long life, she replied, "Working hard," noting that she retired at the age of 83.

Tel Hai staff members on hand for the celebration included Jolene Weaver, director of communications. "(Ellie) participates in Residents Council, does her own care plans with nursing staff and is just a joy to our staff," said Weaver. "She's one of a kind."