Demolition is set to begin today on the city-owned building at 431 Penn Street, marking another chapter in Reading’s ongoing struggle with historic preservation and municipal mismanagement. Once a symbol of architectural grandeur, the structure—particularly its Beaux-Arts façade—has been left to decay under [...]
Jackson Rope Company was one of Reading, Pennsylvania’s longest-standing manufacturers. Founded in 1829 by English ropemaker Thomas Jackson, the company grew from a small operation along the Schuylkill Canal into a nationally respected rope manufacturer. For 150 years, Jackson Rope adapted to industrial [...]
In February 1953, Mayor Bamford introduced “Traffic Plan B,” a comprehensive blueprint for alleviating congestion and improving traffic flow throughout Reading. Among its key proposals was the opening of Oley Street, which had been obstructed for over 75 years. This plan also included [...]
In the early 1970s, the city of Reading embarked on a transformational journey to modernize its traffic patterns as part of its broader urban renewal initiative. This effort, backed by years of planning and discussion, sought to align the city's traffic flow with [...]
The story of the South Reading Bridge is one of vision, advocacy, and setbacks, spanning decades of urban planning in Reading, Pennsylvania. Conceived as a transformative infrastructure project, the bridge was intended to link the West Shore Bypass with the city center via [...]
Hollenbach, Dietrich & Co., a celebrated name in Reading, Pennsylvania’s history, owes its beginnings to the ambition and hard work of Benjamin F. Hollenbach. Born in January 1871 in Slatington, Pennsylvania, Hollenbach grew up with a strong work ethic, likely inspired by his [...]
Sarge's Japanese Ice Cream Parlor opened its doors on June 24, 1916, at 932 Penn Street in Reading, Pennsylvania. Designed with an Oriental-inspired facade, the building reflected the early 20th-century fascination with Japanese aesthetics fueled by cultural phenomena like Puccini's Madame Butterfly and [...]
In Reading and Berks County, Pennsylvania, the time-honored custom of making pierogies holds a special place in the hearts of locals. Rooted in Eastern European immigrant traditions, pierogi-making has transcended generations, becoming a cherished family and community activity that brings people together over [...]
In 1946, Sebastian Ninfo, born August 17, 1899, in Italy, who immigrated to America in 1916, purchased the property at 401 North 10th Street in Reading, Pennsylvania, and later opened the Stardust Luncheonette. The restaurant quickly became a neighborhood favorite, drawing long lines—especially [...]
🌄 Outdoor Adventures The Pagoda – A Reading icon! This historic Japanese-style pagoda sits atop Mount Penn, offering breathtaking views of the city. Visit at sunset for an unforgettable sight. Hawk Mountain Sanctuary – A must for nature lovers! This raptor conservation area [...]
