Introduction to Pottstown, Pennsylvania
Pottstown, Pennsylvania, in Montgomery county, is 15 miles SE of Reading, Pennsylvania (center to center) and 32 miles NW of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Pottstown History
The area now known as Pottstown was originally a land grant to William Penn. English, Germans, and Swedes were among the first settlers in the region. An iron forge was established in 1714, which caused the iron industry to become an important component of the community's economy. The Potts family, who were iron masters by profession, arrived in the mid-18th century and founded another forge. In 1761, John Potts established the town on 995 acres of land, and in 1815, it was officially incorporated as "Pottstown." The Reading Railroad's extension to Mount Carbon brought further prosperity to the community.
Pottstown and Nearby Attractions
- Pottsgrove Manor
- Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site
- Valley Forge Historical Society Museum
- Mennonite Heritage Center
- Elmwood Park Zoo
- French Creek State Park
Things To Do In Pottstown
Pottsgrove Manor, the house of John Potts who founded the community, was constructed in 1752 and features early Georgian architecture. The 197-acre arboretum and conservation area, Welkinweir, which is also located in Pottstown, is currently on the list of the National Register of Historic Places. The Mennonite Heritage Center showcases exhibits of the history of Mennonites in southern Pennsylvania. Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, Valley Forge National Historical Park, Peter Wentz Farmstead, and Daniel Boone Homestead are some of the nearby places of historic interest. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, camping, and picnicking at the Evansburg State Park Marsh Creek State Park, and French Creek State Park. Some of these parks also include golf courses. The community hosts the Colonial May Fair during May every year.
Pottstown Transportation
Air transportation is available from the Philadelphia International Airport.
Pottstown Higher Education
Montgomery County Community College - West Campus is situated in Pottstown. Valley Forge Christian College, Albright College, Ursinus College, and Eastern University are located nearby.
