RUMFORD – Geneva Wing Raymond remembers the birthday celebrations in her early years in Sunday School at Virgin Memorial Chapel of the Rumford United Methodist Church.

The children put a penny for each year of their age into the hand of a seated-man bank. He would put the penny into the bank slot and nod his head in thanks. The birthday child would then hold a candle and listen to the “Happy Birthday Song.”

The patent date on this bank, beloved by so many through the years, was in the 1800s. Virginia Davis Haley, now 99 and living in Virginia, put in her pennies in the 1910s. Her father, Charles L. Davis, had helped to build the chapel, completed in 1908. Years later, her nephew, Bob Davis, created a display box for the safekeeping of the antique bank, which will be on exhibit in the church fellowship hall.

Also on display will be vintage clothing of ancestors of Naomi Davis Robertson, scrapbooks containing pictures and news clippings through the years and other items.

Included also will be the framed, illustrated 1893 wedding certificate of Carrie and Leverna Niles, who also helped build the chapel.

Carrie was the first Sunday school superintendent. Their five sons helped with maintenance in their younger years, daughter Marion played the organ, and Frederick became a Methodist minister.

All are welcome to attend the photo display and exhibit in the fellowship hall and the 2 p.m. church history slide show and program in the sanctuary during the 100 Years of Spirit celebration Saturday, Sept. 13.

Guests will include Paul and Judy Aiken and Fred and Rosanna Aiken of Portland. Their mother, Esther Aiken, was a Sunday school superintendent. Their grandmother, Luna Watson, was a long-time organist.

The Sunday, Sept. 14, worship service will be at 10:30 a.m. A memorial hymn sing that day will be at 2 p.m., and everyone is welcome.

Those who would like to contribute memories relating to the church are asked to send them to Peggy Welch, 645 Crescent Ave., Rumford, ME 04276.