There’s a funny thing I’ve learned in the 15 years of writing about Pennsylvania. Hidden in every small town is a big story. This one is no exception; just ask one of the locals, they'll be happy to tell you. With a population of approximately 4,000 residents, you might think Boyertown, Berks County, Pennsylvania's Americana Region is little more than a dot on the map. But, you would be mistaken.
When I set off the visit this quaint town in Southeastern Pennsylvania I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was aware of the antique vehicle museum there and a railroad but that was all I knew. You’d think by now I’d know better than to underestimate the importance of small-town America. My first stop was to meet up with Debbie Bertolet, Executive Director of the Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles. Though I was familiar with the museum, I was surprised at the impressive vehicles in this collection. A recent renovation to the floor gives the museum a sleek new look.
One of the first things I noticed as we walked onto the showroom floor was Fegley’s Reading Diner that now sits inside the museum. The diner, which originally opened in 1938, underwent restoration in 2011 and is now a focal piece of the Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles. You’ll also find a 1921 Sonoco gas station on display next to the diner.
Each year Duryea Day Car Show attracts people from near and far to this family-friendly event at the Boyertown Community Park. More than 600 vehicles of all make, models and eras participate. In addition to the car, truck and motorcycle show, the event features a large flea market with auto parts and collectibles as well as homemade crafts. Children’s activities range from face painting and henna tattoos to the Trackless Train Ride. The event also features live blacksmithing at the museum’s 1872 Jeremiah Sweinhart Carriage Factory. makes, models, and eras participate. In addition to the car, truck and motorcycle show, the event features a large flea market with auto parts and collectibles as well as homemade crafts. Children’s activities range from face painting and henna tattoos to the Trackless Train Ride. The event also features live blacksmithing at the museum’s 1872 Jeremiah Sweinhart Carriage Factory.
Continue reading Wendy's post about her visit to Boyertown in Where & When Magazine by clicking here.