The citizens of Reading purchased goods from local farmers out of market houses along Market Square, now known as Penn Square. This practice lasted until the 1870s, once individual neighborhoods created their own markets. The most important citizens lived on the Square, including its two surgeons, a future Governor, Joseph Heister, and the founder of the Lutheran Church in the United States, Henry Melchior Muhlenberg.
Reading was promoted from town to “city” in 1849. When the Civil War began, President Lincoln summoned the Union for troops to protect the US Capitol. Reading’s “First Defenders” were the first to respond. The city was also a supplier of iron during the Civil War. Reading flourished during the Industrial Revolution – as the population grew, the city became a powerful industrial center. Reading provided significant support to the war efforts of both World Wars and even earned national recognition for its industrial contributions.
In March, the City of Reading officially turned 275! There were celebrations on March 15th with a gala at the Reading Public Museum and fireworks on the mountain. Hosted by the Community Knights Service Club of Reading High School, the evening included entertainment by the Reading High School String Ensemble and Hot Club of Reading. Officials from our sister cities in Reading, England and Reutlingen, Germany were present for the official proclamation by Mayor Eddie Moran.
There will be events during the year to celebrate this milestone year. Please check the Reading 275 website, www.readingpa.gov/visitors/275 for further information. Help us make this a historic occasion!
Rick Polityka
Berks History Center Board Member & Volunteer
Jhonny pon estas palabras con la foto:
Photo Caption: Model of Colonial Era Penn Square depicting the Old Reading Court House and market houses. Currently on display in the Berks History Center’s Museum.
