As the Reading Liederkranz celebrates Oktoberfest we are reminded that the month of October is German Heritage Month. German people began moving to Pennsylvania as early as 1683. Between 1683 and 1783, more than 100,000 German-speaking immigrants from the Palantine, Wurttemberg, and Hesse; the Swiss cantons of Basel, Bern, Zurich; and from Alsace and Lorraine would stream into Pennsylvania and other parts of British North America.
Since then, many people have come to the United States to bring their creativity and determination. They went after their dreams and built the roads that let us follow them, whether they were pioneers, creators, or entrepreneurs. Their effects can be seen all over the country through our buildings, writing, and towns and cities.
Below are a few prominent Germans of Reading and Berks County in the Historical and Biographical Annals of Berks County.
Diplomat
Conrad Weiser – A key figure in Berks County’s early history, Weiser was a German immigrant who served as an interpreter and diplomat between Native Americans and the Pennsylvania government. He played a pivotal role in maintaining peaceful relations with Native American tribes. He settled in the Tulpehocken region.
Wyomissing
German-Americans Ferdinand Thun and Henry Janssen were associated with the creation and development of Wyomissing. These two industrialists, who emigrated from Germany, were the founders of Wyomissing Industries, which included companies such as the Textile Machine Works, Berkshire Knitting Mills, and Narrow Fabric Company. Their contributions played a pivotal role in transforming Wyomissing into a thriving borough and industrial center.
Below: Ferdinand Thun and Henry Janssen
Additionally, Gustav Oberlaender, a partner of Thun and Janssen, also contributed significantly to the industrial growth of Wyomissing. Together, these men were responsible for the large-scale development of the area, employing thousands of workers and making Wyomissing a major industrial hub in Berks County.
Brewing Industry
Frederick Lauer was a prominent German-American brewer, Lauer played a crucial role in the brewing industry in Berks County. His brewery, located at 3rd and Chestnut Streets, was a key establishment during the Civil War, and he often hosted military units passing through Berks County.
Below: Frederick Lauer
Manufacturing
J.H. Sternbergh founded the Reading Bolt and Nut Works in 1865. Sternbergh was instrumental in the development of the nut and bolt industry in Reading, Pennsylvania. His company eventually became part of a larger consolidation with other firms, including the Pennsylvania Nut & Bolt Company and the National Nut, Bolt & Rivet Works, forming the American Iron & Steel Manufacturing Company. Sternbergh’s contributions to the industry were recognized at various exhibitions, and his company played a key role in the industrial growth of the region.
BelowL James Hervey Sternbergh
Churches and Institutions
Monsignor George Bornemann was born on October 5, 1838, in Lingen, Province of Hanover, Germany. His father, William, was a rope-maker, and his mother, Louisa Rolfs, passed away when he was young. George Bornemann emigrated to the United States at the age of 15 to pursue a vocation in the priesthood and became a prominent figure in Reading, Pennsylvania, serving as the pastor of St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church for over 40 years.
Below: Monsignor George Bornemann
George Bornemann left a significant legacy in the institutions and churches of Reading, Pennsylvania. His contributions were widespread, particularly in religious, educational, and charitable sectors. Here are some key aspects of his legacy:
St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church – Bornemann served as the pastor of St. Paul’s Church in Reading for 56 years, where he oversaw the expansion of the church’s property at Ninth and Walnut streets. This property became one of the largest religious, educational, and charitable complexes in Reading, a testament to his judgment and leadership Reading and Berks County History.
St. Joseph’s Hospital – Bornemann played a critical role in founding and supporting the growth of St. Joseph’s Hospital. His charitable work and donations ensured that the hospital could provide care for the community.
St. Catharine’s Orphan Asylum for Girls and St. Paul’s Orphan Asylum for Boys – As part of his commitment to education and social welfare, Bornemann helped establish these orphanages to support underprivileged children in the region.
Gethsemane Cemetery – Bornemann purchased 52 acres in Muhlenberg Township to establish Gethsemane Cemetery, which became a major Catholic burial ground. His body was later interred there.
House of the Good Shepherd – A charitable institution that cared for women and children, founded with the help of Bornemann.
Holy Rosary Church – Bornemann purchased a church building and handed it over to serve the Italian Catholic community in Reading.
Nativity BVM Church for Ukrainians – Another ethnic church founded with his support, helping the Ukrainian Catholic community in the area.
St. Bernardine’s Convent and Asylum – Located in Oakbrook, this institution was created for the Bernardine Sisters and orphans.
Legacy of Charity – Upon his death on March 3, 1924, Monsignor Bornemann donated his savings to several institutions, including local schools and hospitals, continuing his legacy of charity and service to the Reading community.
Politics
Joseph Hiester – A German-American who became Governor of Pennsylvania and was involved in politics in Berks County.
Political Economist
Friedrich List was significant figure in Reading’s history, Friedrich List was a German-born political economist who emigrated to the U.S. in 1825. He became the editor of the Readinger Adler (Reading Eagle) and co-founded the Little Schuylkill Railroad in 1826. List returned to Germany in 1832 but left a lasting impact on the region’s industrial development.
Below: Friedrich List
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