Reading

Reading, Pennsylvania, the county seat of Berks County, is a city with a substantial industrial past and a lively present, set in the scenic Schuylkill Valley. Established in 1748 by William Penn's sons, Thomas and Richard Penn, the city's design drew inspiration from Penn's own county seat in Berkshire, England. Once a powerhouse of iron and steel production, Reading played a significant part in the Industrial Revolution, notably as the headquarters of the Reading Railroad, which was once the largest corporation globally.

Today, Reading is a diverse city with over 45 nationalities represented, offering a blend of historic character and contemporary amenities. It is widely known as 'The Pretzel City' due to its many local pretzel bakeries. The city is also a center for arts and culture, supporting a symphony orchestra, choral societies, and various music groups, alongside a flourishing street art scene where murals transform urban spaces. Overlooking the city from Mount Penn is the distinctive Pagoda, a Japanese-style landmark that provides expansive views.

Beyond its urban core, the Reading area is a haven for those who enjoy the outdoors, offering over 125 miles of cycling trails and close access to natural attractions like French Creek State Park and Blue Marsh Lake Recreation Area. With its unique combination of history, culture, and recreation, Reading offers a distinct experience for visitors exploring southeastern Pennsylvania.

From Frontier Outpost to Industrial Giant

The area that would become Reading was first identified in 1733, strategically positioned at the intersection of the East Penn-Lebanon Valley and the Schuylkill River. Initially known as Finney's Ford, the town was formally established in 1748 by Thomas and Richard Penn, sons of Pennsylvania's founder, William Penn. They named it after their family's county seat, Reading in Berkshire, England. Just four years later, in 1752, Reading was designated the county seat of Berks County.

During the French and Indian War, Reading served as a vital military base, supporting a chain of forts along the Blue Mountains. The region's developing iron industry proved crucial, with its production surpassing that of England by the time of the American Revolution, supplying George Washington's troops with essential weapons, including cannons, rifles, and ammunition. Reading also served as a depot for military supplies and even housed Hessian prisoners from the Battle of Trenton.

The Age of Canals and Railroads

The 19th century introduced an era of significant transportation advancements for Reading. The Schuylkill Canal, completed in 1825, connected Reading with Philadelphia and the Delaware River, facilitating the efficient transport of bulk cargo. This was followed by the Union Canal in 1828, which linked the Schuylkill and Susquehanna Rivers. However, the dominance of canals was brief, as railroads began to emerge as a more efficient alternative.

The Philadelphia and Reading Railroad (P&R), incorporated in 1833, quickly became a transformative force. Extending in all directions from the city, its construction was arguably the single greatest factor in Berks County's development. By the 1870s, the Reading Railroad had grown into the largest corporation in the world. Despite its success, the railroad faced challenges, including a violent statewide strike in 1877 during the Long Depression, which resulted in the deaths of six Reading men. The Reading Company eventually went bankrupt in 1971.

A City of Industry and Innovation

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Reading was a significant manufacturing center for iron, steel, and textiles. It is also credited with pioneering the outlet shopping industry, with the VF Outlet being among the first. The city's industrial prowess was complemented by its cultural development, becoming home to a symphony orchestra and various other arts organizations. Reading also bore its share of burdens through various conflicts, including the Civil War and World War II. Today, Reading continues to be a city with an industrial pulse, while also embracing its diverse cultural heritage and natural surroundings.

Begin your exploration of Reading with a visit to the distinctive Reading Pagoda on Mount Penn. This seven-story Japanese-style structure, originally conceived as a luxury resort, offers sweeping views of the city and surrounding landscape. A short distance away on the same mountain, climb the William Penn Memorial Fire Tower for even more expansive vistas.

Delve into the region's past at the Berks History Center, which houses over 20,000 artifacts detailing the county's development, from Conestoga Wagons to early automobiles. For a broader cultural and scientific experience, spend at least half a day at the Reading Public Museum, featuring a planetarium, arboretum, and exhibits spanning millions of years of history. Aviation enthusiasts will appreciate the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum, home to a collection of historic aircraft, including World War II warbirds.

Experience Reading's artistic side at the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, a creative hub with galleries, workshops, and a glassblowing studio. For a unique underground adventure, head just outside the city to Crystal Cave, Pennsylvania's first show cave, displaying striking rock formations. Nature lovers can explore the hiking trails and raptor viewing opportunities at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, an internationally recognized bird of prey conservation area.

Do not forget to savor the local flavor; Reading is known as 'The Pretzel City,' with several bakeries like Tom Sturgis offering tours and tastes of its snack-making history. Catch a minor league baseball game with the Reading Fightin Phils at FirstEnergy Stadium, where you might even spot a hot tub for fans. For performing arts, check the schedules at the Santander Arena and Genesius Theatre.

The most pleasant times to visit Reading are from May to October. During these months, the weather is generally comfortable with mild temperatures and lower humidity. Specifically, May and September are often highlighted as having optimal weather conditions. July is the warmest month, with average highs around 85°F (30°C), while January is the coldest, with average lows around 24°F (-5°C). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with June and August typically receiving the most. For warm-weather activities, mid-June to late September is ideal. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, while late autumn and winter are less crowded, though colder.

Reading is situated in southeastern Pennsylvania, approximately 65 miles (105 km) northwest of Philadelphia. It is easily accessible by road, and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is the nearest major airport, with rental cars and shuttle services available for onward travel. The city also has its own regional airport.

Navigating Reading typically requires a car, though downtown areas are walkable. Public transportation is available through BARTA. Accommodation options range from hotels to guesthouses. The cost of living in Reading is generally below the national average, with affordable housing.

For local information, the City of Reading website and the Reading Berks County Visitors Bureau are excellent resources. The city also offers various community events and festivals throughout the year, so checking a local events calendar is recommended.