Leesport, Pennsylvania facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Leesport, Pennsylvania
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Main Street in Leesport
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Location of Leesport in Berks County, Pennsylvania
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 Leesport, Pennsylvania
Location in Pennsylvania
Leesport, Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Pennsylvania |
| County | Berks |
| Area | |
| • Total | 0.75 sq mi (1.95 km2) |
| • Land | 0.72 sq mi (1.88 km2) |
| • Water | 0.03 sq mi (0.07 km2) |
| Elevation | 299 ft (91 m) |
| Population
(2020)
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| • Total | 1,954 |
| • Density | 2,695.17/sq mi (1,040.12/km2) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (EST) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| ZIP Code |
19533
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| Area code(s) | 610 |
| FIPS code | 42-42352 |
Leesport is a small town, also called a borough, located in Berks County, Pennsylvania, in the United States. In 2020, about 1,954 people lived there. The Schuylkill River flows right through Leesport, adding to its natural beauty.
Contents
History of Leesport
Leesport got its name from a man named Samuel Lee. He started planning out building lots in the area around 1840. This was the beginning of the town.
Early Growth and Industry
A post office opened in Leesport in 1851, making it easier for people to send and receive mail. Soon after, in 1853, a large furnace was built by the Leesport Iron Company. This furnace used a type of coal called anthracite to make iron. By 1876, Leesport was described as a busy and growing village, with a train station for the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad.
Joining West Leesport
In 1957, a nearby borough called West Leesport became part of Leesport. West Leesport was located just across the Schuylkill River. This merger made Leesport a larger community.
Geography and Location
Leesport is a small area, covering about 0.75 square miles (1.95 square kilometers). Most of this area is land, but a small part is water, thanks to the Schuylkill River.
The borough is surrounded by other townships. These include Bern Township, Centre Township, and Ontelaunee Township.
People of Leesport
The number of people living in Leesport has grown over the years. In 1910, there were 436 residents. By 2020, the population had increased to 1,954 people.
Population Changes Over Time
- 1910: 436 people
- 1920: 419 people
- 1930: 464 people
- 1940: 489 people
- 1950: 535 people
- 1960: 1,138 people
- 1970: 1,158 people
- 1980: 1,258 people
- 1990: 1,270 people
- 2000: 1,805 people
- 2010: 1,918 people
- 2020: 1,954 people
Diversity in the Community
In 2020, most people in Leesport were White. There were also people who identified as African American, Native American, and Asian. About 9.6% of the population identified as Hispanic or Latino.
Arts and Culture
Leesport has a special historical building called the Leesport Lock House. This building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's an important historical site that is protected.
Education in Leesport
Students in Leesport attend schools that are part of the Schuylkill Valley School District. This district provides education for children living in the area.
Transportation and Services
Leesport has a good network of roads and public services.
Roads and Bus Service
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The main road through Leesport is Pennsylvania Route 61. This road goes north towards Hamburg and Pottsville, and south towards Reading. Another road, Pennsylvania Route 73, starts near Leesport and heads southeast.
The Berks Area Regional Transportation Authority (BARTA) provides bus service in Leesport. Route 20 follows PA 61, connecting Leesport to Hamburg and Reading. There's also a place where people can park their cars and take the bus, called a park and ride lot.
Railroad History
In the past, Leesport had passenger train service on the SEPTA's Pottsville Line. This allowed people to travel to places like Pottsville, Reading, and Philadelphia. However, this service stopped in 1981. Today, freight trains still use the tracks in Leesport, operated by the Reading Blue Mountain and Northern Railroad.
Emergency Services
Leesport is kept safe by several emergency services. The Northern Berks Regional Police Department provides police services. The Union Fire Company of Leesport handles fires and other emergencies. Schuylkill Valley EMS provides medical emergency services. All these services work together, coordinated by the Berks County Communications Center.
Notable People from Leesport
Some well-known people have come from Leesport:
- Sheila Butler, a visual artist
- Doug Clemens, a professional athlete
See also
In Spanish: Leesport para niños
