Reading, Pennsylvania was founded by Richard and Thomas Penn, the sons of William Penn. Reading was established in 1748. In 1833, the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad became part of the town’s transportation system.

Hurricane Agnes struck Reading, Pennsylvania in 1972. Reading, Pennsylvania is noted for its diverse tree population, including white pine, hemlock, beech sugar maple, white oak, American chestnut and hickory. The area’s animals include wild pigeon, panther, black bears and Canadian Lynx. Common animals are the raccoon, squirrel, rabbit, skunk and woodchuck. Deer, pheasants, ducks and turkeys are also found in Reading, Pennsylvania.

Coal, petroleum, natural gas and cement are primary sources of income for those living in Reading, Pennsylvania.

Milton Hershey was the founding father of Hershey’s Chocolate Factory. James Buchanan served as an ambassador to Russia and became President of the United States.

Daniel Boone became a famous hunter and was involved with General Braddock’s campaign. Betsy Ross was the seamstress who made the Pennsylvania Navy’s flag. Robert E. Peary took par in the 1879 U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey and led the National Aerial Coast Patrol Commission during World War I.

Other famous Pennsylvanians include Benjamin Franklin, Joseph Reed, Thomas Mifflin, John Dickinson and Haym Salomon.