Edwin R. “Eddie” Brunner, a modest yet beloved motorman from Reading, Pennsylvania, was at the helm of history when he guided Streetcar No. 807 on its final journey on January 7, 1952. That day marked not just the end of trolley service in [...]
From 1949 to 1960, Reading, Pennsylvania, was home to a unique Christmas tradition that made headlines across the country. The Junior Chamber of Commerce, or Jaycees, organized an annual religious Christmas parade with a clear mission: to "put Christ back into Christmas" and [...]
In the digital age, community-driven news platforms have become vital in preserving and enriching local journalism. GoReadingBerks is a crucial resource for local news outlets. Through its dedication and expertise, GoReadingBerks has made invaluable contributions by providing historical insights, archival content, and narratives [...]
In the heart of Reading, Pennsylvania, the Astor Theater once stood as a beacon of architectural grandeur and cultural significance. Though the theater met its unfortunate demise years ago, pieces of its storied past have found their way into unexpected places, telling the [...]
The annual Holiday Tree Lighting in Reading was graced by the vibrant performance of the Reading Recreation Commission (RRC) Dance Team, captivating the community with their spirited routines and festive cheer. Under the seasoned leadership of Heather Boyer, the dance team showcased not [...]
As the holiday season wraps us in its magical embrace, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of decorations, gifts, and festive preparations. Amidst all the sparkle and cheer, there's a special source of joy that truly makes Christmas [...]
On October 7, 1948, Reading, Pennsylvania, hosted one of the most memorable parades in its history as part of the city’s bicentennial celebrations. The event combined a tribute to Reading’s 200-year legacy with recognition of its firefighting community, marking the conclusion of the 69th [...]
Monsignor John J. Grabish has devoted over five decades to serving the Catholic Church and its communities, embodying a life of faith, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. From his ordination in 1972 to his present role as pastor of St. [...]
When we think of Christmas music in church, classics like “O Holy Night” or “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” often come to mind. But many churches also include hymns and songs that weren’t originally written for the season yet have become beloved parts of [...]
If you were a resident of Reading, Pennsylvania, in the mid to late 20th century, you may have seen what happens when “urban renewal” dreams big and delivers rubble. Yes, the town’s planners wanted to reshape Reading into a gleaming modern paradise; what [...]
