Last Saturday, bestie, my resident budding photographer, her assistant and I motored to The Reading Pagoda for a haunting photoshoot. Little did we know, there was an infestation of an Asian bug called lanternflies. After endless swatting, I say, Reading Pagoda, you can keep your spotted lanternflies.
First of all, The Reading Pagoda located in Berks County is a historic landmark. The more than a century-old marvel, a perfect site for Instagrammable moments, and photoshoots. The site initially intended to be a luxury resort atop Mt. Penn in Reading, Pennsylvania. But due to some unforeseen circumstances, the seven-story structure now owned by the City of Reading.
Now about those lanternflies. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the spotted lanternflies discovered in Berks county in 2014. The Asian invasive bug spread to 14 Pennsylvania counties over the last five years.
The little creatures, not only annoying but excrete a sugary substance that encourages the growth of black sooty mold. The mold is harmless to people but causes damage to plants and trees.
This site is not only a hot spot for locals and tourists but the spotted lanternflies as well. The invasive flies had our group and all the visitors wondering about the swarms perched on the sunny side of the building.
Interesting Facts About The Reading Pagoda:
🏗 Construction costs in 1908: $50,000.
🎎 It is seven stories high, 28 feet wide, 50 feet long-standing 620 feet above the CIty of Reading and 886 feet above sea level
🏯 The only pagoda in the world with a fireplace and chimney
🌭 There is a small cafe located on the first floor (they only accept cash or checks)
👤 Free group tours, arranged for groups of 20 or more
🌷 Rental space is available on the 2nd level of the Pagoda
🔔 The bell on the top floor, cast in Japan in 1739 purchased by the original owner, William A. Witman, Sr. is worth walking the 87 steps to see. Mr. Witman bought the tocsin and shipped it via the Suez Canal to New York Harbor and arrived by rail in Reading on May 5, 1907.
Did I mention the view? The novelty building offers a 30-mile panoramic view of the city and the surrounding countryside: a fun place to explore, a Pennsylvania marvel.
What I love about my blogging experience is the opportunity to expand my learning about spaces and places in Central Pennsylvania and beyond. I also get to indulge in learning local history. As well enjoying the natural beauty of botanical gardens like Chanticleer, the cherry blossoms in Philly’s Fairmont Park and of late the sunflowers at Please Wash Me Carwash.
Do you have any recommendations for must-see locations? Do share in the comments section via Facebook or Disqus.
As always, thank you for reading and subscribing. Have a fabulous week.
