County of berks
pennsylvania
History & Founding
Located in southeastern Pennsylvania, this county boasts a rich history and diverse landscape. Established in 1752 from portions of Lancaster and Philadelphia counties, its name originates from Berks County, England, a region from which many of the early settlers emigrated. The name was chosen to honor John Berkeley and William Berkeley, Lords Proprietors of that English county. During the American Revolutionary War, the area served as a vital supply depot for the Continental Army, and the Battle of Carpenter’s Farm, a minor skirmish, occurred near Exeter Township, highlighting its strategic importance. Interestingly, legend holds that a local farmer, Samuel Carpenter, initially refused to sell his land to the British, delaying their efforts and contributing to the American cause. The county’s agricultural productivity and strategic location significantly contributed to Pennsylvania’s growth and development in the formative years of the nation.
Geography & Landscape
The county’s geography is characterized by rolling hills and fertile valleys, situated within the Piedmont region of Pennsylvania. It lies approximately 60 miles northwest of Philadelphia and 120 miles southwest of New York City. The Schuylkill River and its tributaries, including the Maiden Creek and French Creek, carve through the landscape, providing water resources and scenic beauty. While no major mountain ranges dominate the county, the landscape gently rises towards the Kittatinny Ridge to the north. The climate is humid subtropical, experiencing four distinct seasons with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The land area encompasses 859 square miles, offering a mix of farmland, forests, and developed areas.
Economy & Communities
The county is a blend of urban, suburban, and rural communities. Reading, the county seat, serves as the primary urban center, while towns like Exeter, Spring Township, and Muhlenberg Township contribute to the suburban character. Numerous smaller communities, often rooted in agricultural traditions, dot the rural areas. The economy is diverse, historically driven by agriculture, particularly dairy farming and fruit production. Today, manufacturing, healthcare, and services are significant sectors. Key employers include Reading Health System, Penske Truck Leasing, and Carpenter Technology. The area's accessibility to major metropolitan areas has fostered a mix of industries and a diverse workforce. The character of the county is one of resilience and adaptation, balancing its agricultural heritage with modern economic development.
Points of Interest
Numerous points of interest draw visitors to the region. The Daniel Boone Homestead, birthplace of the famed frontiersman, offers a glimpse into colonial life. Gringrich’s Field, a preserved Civil War battlefield, commemorates a significant event in American history. The Pagoda, a Japanese-style structure perched atop Mount Penn, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and is a local landmark. The Berks County Farmers Market is a popular destination for fresh produce and local crafts. The Oley Valley Arts Council hosts various cultural events throughout the year. The county also boasts numerous parks and recreational areas, including Angelica State Park and French Creek State Park. The county’s FIPS code is 011, and it operates within the Eastern Time Zone (UTC-5).
Information
- State
- pennsylvania
- Type
- County
- Population
- 373,638
- Land area
- 859 sq mi
- Capital
- Reading
- Time zone
- UTC-5
- FIPS
- 42011
36 Cities
| City | Population | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 81,207 | 266 ft (81 m) |
| Wyomissing | 8,587 | 320 ft (98 m) |
| Kutztown | 5,067 | 417 ft (127 m) |
| Birdsboro | 5,064 | 163 ft (50 m) |
| Shillington | 5,059 | 330 ft (101 m) |
| Hamburg | 4,114 | 373 ft (114 m) |
| West Reading | 4,049 | 300 ft (91 m) |
| Fleetwood | 4,018 | 440 ft (134 m) |
| Boyertown | 3,940 | 415 ft (126 m) |
| Laureldale | 3,759 | 370 ft (113 m) |
| Amity Gardens | 3,370 | 240 ft (73 m) |
| West Wyomissing | 3,016 | 343 ft (105 m) |
| Mount Penn | 3,016 | 500 ft (152 m) |
| Lorane | 2,994 | 192 ft (59 m) |
| Mohnton | 2,963 | 401 ft (122 m) |
| Whitfield | 2,952 | 340 ft (104 m) |
| Reiffton | 2,888 | 365 ft (111 m) |
| Kenhorst | 2,679 | 320 ft (98 m) |
| Sinking Spring | 2,639 | 347 ft (106 m) |
| Womelsdorf | 2,599 | 440 ft (134 m) |
| Wyomissing Hills | 2,568 | 350 ft (107 m) |
| Wernersville | 2,150 | 388 ft (118 m) |
| Shoemakersville | 2,124 | 360 ft (110 m) |
| Robesonia | 2,036 | 444 ft (135 m) |
| Topton | 1,948 | 485 ft (148 m) |
| St. Lawrence | 1,812 | 340 ft (104 m) |
| Leesport | 1,805 | 300 ft (91 m) |
| West Lawn | 1,597 | 343 ft (105 m) |
| Flying Hills | 1,191 | 400 ft (122 m) |
| Bally | 1,062 | 468 ft (143 m) |
| Bechtelsville | 931 | 420 ft (128 m) |
| Bernville | 865 | 322 ft (98 m) |
| Spring Ridge | 786 | 400 ft (122 m) |
| Lyons | 504 | 465 ft (142 m) |
| Strausstown | 339 | 581 ft (177 m) |
| Centerport | 327 | 340 ft (104 m) |