The Reading Public Library built by Andrew Carnegie
Andrew Carnegie was once the richest man in the world. Coming as a dirt poor kid from Scotland to the U.S., by the 1880s he'd built an empire in steel - and then gave [...]
The Reading Fairgrounds in Muhlenberg Township
On April 20, 1915, two adjoining tracts of land in Muhlenberg Township, totaling 54 acres, were purchased for $20,750 for the site of the Reading Fairgrounds. Several subsequent purchases increased the area to approximately [...]
Spring Garden and Deppen Brewing Co.
When the oldest citizens were boys, and even before, there were summer gardens and other popular resorts in Reading and vicinity. Before the law was enforced prohibiting the selling of strong liquors on Sunday, [...]
Stoudt’s Ferry Bridge in Muhlenberg Township
Muhlenberg Township had two covered bridges, Stoudt’s Ferry Bridge and Leize’s Bridge, both of which spanned the Schuylkill River and both shared with Bern Township. Bridges were covered only to extend the life of [...]
The Crossroads at Leisz’s Bridge in Muhlenberg Township
One of the most historic spots along Muhlenberg Township’s River Road is the intersection with Leisz’s Bridge Road. Leisz’s Bridge was an important commercial link between Bern and Muhlenberg Townships. In particular, the early [...]
Astor Theatre – Penn Street – Reading PA
In 1891, the Keystone Market House at 734 Penn Street was transformed into the Eden Musee (a curio hall and museum) and the Bijou Theatre. The property underwent various name changes over the next [...]
Featured series – Sin City
About GoReadingBerks
GoReadingBerks is a digital platform dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of Reading and Berks County, Pennsylvania. Through carefully curated articles, vintage photographs, and in-depth research, it explores the region’s past—from its industrial heritage and architectural landmarks to its cultural traditions and community stories.
