The Three-Mile House and the Reading Driving Park (Shillington Speedway)
The history of the Three-Mile House and the adjacent Reading Driving Park is a richly layered narrative that traces [...]
The Socialist Movement in Reading, Pennsylvania (1896–1958)
The socialist movement in Reading, Pennsylvania, from 1896 to 1958, stands as a remarkable chapter in American political history. [...]
From Reading to Allentown, Pennsylvania: The Legacy of Early’s Old Fashioned Chocolates
At 1428 Amity Street in Reading, Pennsylvania, a sweet chapter in American confectionery history began. It was here, in [...]
Reading Celebrates a Semi-Victory at 431 Penn Street Amid New Road Closures on Court and Madison
The City of Reading has declared a triumphant, if incomplete, success with the partial demolition of 431 Penn Street, [...]
The Epic Saga of Reading Outlets: From Rags to Riches to Rags Again
Gather ‘round, ye seekers of discounted fleece, for the tale of the Redding Pennsylvania outlets—er, Reading Pennsylvania outlets (curse [...]
Traver Circle Swing at Carsonia and Dorney Park
In the early 20th century, engineer and inventor Harry G. Traver transformed the amusement industry with his groundbreaking ride, [...]
The History of Dorney Park’s Zoorama
For generations of children and families, Dorney Park near Allentown, Pennsylvania, wasn’t just a place for thrilling rides and [...]
History of the Cuddle-Up Ride at Carsonia, Dorney, and Hershey Park
During the golden age of American amusement parks, few attractions matched the charm and swirling excitement of the Cuddle-Up [...]
The Grande Carousel and the Fire That Changed Dorney Park
The Grande Carousel was one of Dorney Park's most treasured icons—a hand-carved masterpiece of American amusement history that captivated [...]
The Flying Dutchman: Dorney Park’s Legendary Coaster
The Flying Dutchman was a unique steel roller coaster that operated at Dorney Park in Allentown, Pennsylvania, from 1977 [...]
Bill Tracy’s Dark Rides at Dorney Park
Throughout much of the 20th century, Dorney Park in Allentown, Pennsylvania, was home to some of the most creative [...]
Journey to the Center of the Earth: Dorney Park’s Iconic Lost Ride
One of the most iconic and beloved rides in Dorney Park’s history was Journey to the Center of the [...]
Zephyr: The Little Train That Saved Dorney Park
During the Great Depression, when times were tough all over America, Dorney Park was fighting to survive. Families had [...]
Thunderhawk: A Century of Thrills at Dorney Park
For a century, Thunderhawk has carved its legend into the Pennsylvania skyline, a wooden titan that has thrilled generations [...]
Gates at the Pagoda: A Missed Opportunity for Greater Ambition
On March 31, 2025, the City of Reading will see the full activation of newly installed gates and surveillance [...]
Demolition Begins on 431 Penn Street: A Story of Neglect and Lost Heritage
Demolition is set to begin today on the city-owned building at 431 Penn Street, marking another chapter in Reading’s [...]
The Legacy of Jackson Rope Company: 150 Years of Manufacturing in Reading, Pennsylvania
Jackson Rope Company was one of Reading, Pennsylvania’s longest-standing manufacturers. Founded in 1829 by English ropemaker Thomas Jackson, the [...]
The Historic Opening of Oley Street
In February 1953, Mayor Bamford introduced “Traffic Plan B,” a comprehensive blueprint for alleviating congestion and improving traffic flow [...]
Reversal of Streets: Transforming Reading’s Traffic and Urban Landscape
In the early 1970s, the city of Reading embarked on a transformational journey to modernize its traffic patterns as [...]
History of the Proposed South Reading Bridge
The story of the South Reading Bridge is one of vision, advocacy, and setbacks, spanning decades of urban planning [...]
Hollenbach, Dietrich & Co.: From Whiskey Wagons to Iconic Enterprise
Hollenbach, Dietrich & Co., a celebrated name in Reading, Pennsylvania’s history, owes its beginnings to the ambition and hard [...]