Established in 1748, Reading became county seat to Berks County in 1752.  The town developed around its iron industry and with the Philadelphia & Reading Railroad construction in 1833, the town flourished.  The first automobile dealership opened here, operated by H.W. Koler, to sell Winton Automobiles.

Berks County is a thriving region with a steadily increasing yearly population as well as a significant increase in resident's income.  Over 9.5 million tourists visit the County each year, enjoying the many historic sites and museums as well as the wonderful outdoor recreation that the picturesque landscape provides.  Berks County is famous for its fairs and festivals, and Reading plays host to the annual Reading Fair, celebrating its 150^th anniversary in the summer of 2005.  The Reading Riverfest promises music, art, fireworks and food.  Culinary delights are found year-round in Reading, with restaurants like the historic Peanut Bar, the Crab Barn and the Ugly Oyster, Berks County's oldest pub.  The Speckled Hen Cottage Pub and Alehouse is the area's newest addition, housed in a lovingly restored 18^th century log house. 

Reading's population is just over 81,000 according to the 2000 census.  Residents love their sports here, and support both the minor league baseball team The Reading Phillies, along with the major league Reading Royals hockey team.  Golf, skiing, hiking and boating opportunities are found all throughout Berks County.

Education also remains vital to Reading residents. Four colleges are found in the city: Penn State University, the Reading Area Community College, as well as Albright and Alvernia Colleges.  For a different type of education, the Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center offers wonderful classes for students of all ages, to explore and learn to preserve the area's precious environment.  Nolde Forest stretches over 665 acres of beautiful woodlands, streams and ponds.  A garden of native wildflowers shows residents what can thrive here.