Womelsdorf Historic District facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Womelsdorf Historic District
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House in the Womelsdorf Historic District, April 2011
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 Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Location | Roughly bounded by Water, 4th, Franklin and Jefferson Sts., Womelsdorf, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | 7,052.3 acres (2,854.0 ha) |
| Built | 1880 |
| Architect | Multiple |
| Architectural style | Queen Anne, Italianate, Georgian |
| NRHP reference No. | 82003764 |
| Added to NRHP | March 10, 1982 |
The Womelsdorf Historic District is a special area in Womelsdorf, Pennsylvania, located in Berks County, Pennsylvania. It's like a protected neighborhood where many old and important buildings are kept safe. This district was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
The district covers about 70 acres and includes 237 buildings that are important to history. These buildings are homes and businesses. They show off different old building styles, like Queen Anne, Italianate, and Georgian.
Contents
A Look Back: Womelsdorf's Story
Early Settlers and Town Beginnings
Between 1723 and 1729, a group of German immigrants moved to Pennsylvania. They had first lived in New York but then settled in what was called the Tulpehocken Valley. This name meant "Land of Turtles" in the language of the Native Americans who lived there.
In 1762, a man named John Womelsdorf planned out a new community. He named it Middle Town because it was about halfway between Reading and Lebanon. That same year, Jacob Seltzer built the very first house. This house later became a famous place called Stouch's Tavern. It was one of the oldest taverns in the county and was still open in 2010.
Growing into a Busy Center
Soon after it started, Middle Town became a popular stop for travelers. People traveling between Lebanon and Reading, and even to bigger cities across Pennsylvania, would often stop there.
In 1774, the town's name was changed to Womelsdorf. This was done to honor John Womelsdorf, who had helped start the town. As more people visited and lived there, Womelsdorf also became a busy place for business. It was known for its grist mills, which ground grain, and for making wool hats and hosiery. From 1875 to 1930, it was especially famous for making cigars.
A Presidential Visit and Town Growth
On November 13, 1793, George Washington, who was America's first president, visited Womelsdorf. He came to check on the building of the Union Canal. During his visit, President Washington stayed at Stouch's Tavern. By 1833, Womelsdorf officially became a borough, which is a type of town. At that time, about 750 people lived there.
Creating the Historic District
To protect its history, people decided to create a historic district in Womelsdorf. They planned to include buildings that were important for their architecture or history. They also included gardens, garages, and sheds that were part of these historic properties.
The Womelsdorf Historic District was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. This helps make sure these important buildings are preserved for the future.
Important Buildings to See
The Womelsdorf Historic District has 237 buildings that are part of its history. These buildings are homes and businesses. They show off different architectural styles, including Queen Anne, Italianate, and Georgian.
Some of the well-known non-residential buildings include:
- Stouch's Tavern (built around 1785)
- William Penn Hotel (built in 1866)
- Conrad Weiser Inn (built in 1897)
- Brooklyn Hotel (built around 1877)
