Resources

Informational Resources

THE READING PAGODA:  THE SYMBOL OF THE CITY FOR MORE THAN A CENTURY

The Reading Pagoda is an historic  public observatory that draws people to its inspirational setting and thirty-mile panoramic views from all over the world.  

HISTORIC TIMELINE

1906 - On August 10th the Reading Eagle announces Quarry owner William Abbott Whitman will build a luxury resort “building similar to a Japanese pagoda” on the site of his former quarry, using its stone.

1908 - The construction of the luxury resort is complete, but the liquor license is denied, dissolving plans to open.

1910 - The Farmer’s National Bank forecloses the property.  Jonathan Mould, a former director of the bank purchases the property and 10 surrounding acres to save the bank from a loss.

1911 - On April 21, Mould and his wife, Julia, present the Pagoda to the City of Reading.  The Pagoda has been under the care of the City of Reading and its residents since receiving this gift. 

Read more about the History of the Pagoda from the Berks History Center.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATES

Closed at the beginning of the pandemic, the CIty conducted a safety review of the Pagoda, and came up with a plan to address needed upgrades and repairs.  In October, new parking spots, ADA accessible parking and ramps, freshly paved roadways and safety gates were installed. 

While visitors can once again park and view the Pagoda, the inside still remains closed as the City prepares to make other upgrades in the area. Plans are in the works to add new LED lighting, repair sidewalks, stairs and railings.  Geotechnical and Structural Engineers will assess the property, including the stone foundation. Finally, interior restoration will be conducted to resolve moisture infiltration issues. Once the work is completed, the building can safely reopen to the public.