The iconic Reading Pagoda, a landmark perched 620 feet above the city, opened its doors for a special guided tour on Sunday, August 25. This event, though closed to the general public, was accessible via a livestream on social media, allowing the community to virtually experience the first look inside the building since its closure in 2020.
Joey Miranda, Board President of the Foundation of the Reading Pagoda, led the exclusive tour for board members and the press, offering a unique glimpse into the ongoing preservation and planned renovation efforts.
Built in 1907 as a luxury resort, the Pagoda stands as the only structure of its kind in the United States. At 71 feet tall, with seven stories, it offers a stunning 30-mile panoramic view from its perch atop Mount Penn. The building, which cost $50,000 to construct, has been a beloved fixture of Berks County for over a century. In 1911, it was donated to the City of Reading and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1972.
In 2014, the Foundation for the Reading Pagoda was established to assist in the preservation, enhancement, and community utilization of the property. The current efforts to restore the Pagoda are part of a broader plan initiated in 2021, when the Foundation and the City of Reading began assessing the need for updates and repairs. Engineering assessments conducted in 2022 outlined the scope of work necessary to restore the Pagoda, including critical repairs to its retaining wall, and updates to its mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems.
Insights from the Tour
The tour highlighted both the beauty and the challenges of maintaining the historic structure. Outside, the concrete around the building is deteriorating, particularly on the steps. In addition, the wood at the top of the Torii gate needs replacement. However, Miranda reassured attendees that the building itself is safe and secure, with the primary concerns focusing on the exterior grounds.
Inside, the Pagoda is filled with history and community connections. The first floor houses a gift shop with small food items for sale, along with several model replicas of the Pagoda donated by local residents. The second floor, which includes a souvenir penny press machine and a large meeting space, shows signs of wear, with chipping paint. The third floor, formerly home to the Berks Arts Council and WEEU offices, offers panoramic views of the city and is envisioned as a potential site for a pop-up restaurant. The fourth and fifth floors are filled with historical memorabilia and a museum, while the sixth floor provides stunning views and features a Japanese bell and coin-operated binoculars.
Voices of the Board
The tour was accompanied by commentary from key figures involved in the restoration efforts. Marcia Goodman-Hinnershitz, Vice President of the Foundation, emphasized the complexity of the project: “This building is over 115 years old, bolted to the side of the mountain, has different ground in front of it that originally wasn’t there when it was built. To bring this Pagoda back to its original glory, we need your help and patience. It’s a very complex building.”
Donna Reed, Board Member and City Council President, underscored the financial commitment required: “The city will be putting at least $10 million towards this process, the walls alone are $7 million. We’re going to do it right, so it’s going to take a lot of money and time, but now is the time.”
Chris Daubert, another Board Member, called for community support: “The city and the foundation, it’s going to be a struggle to do this alone and that’s where you come in. We’re having a fundraiser this Thursday at Panera Bread in Muhlenberg Township from 4 to 8 pm. 25% of all proceeds will help preserve this historic landmark for all of us.”
Community Questions Addressed
The livestream of the tour raised several questions from community members in the comments.
When asked if the Pagoda would reopen for tours, Miranda confirmed that it would remain closed until the necessary exterior repairs are completed. The interior renovations, which include upgrades to heating, air conditioning, and compliance with city codes, are also pending.
Concerns were raised about the lengthy repair process. Miranda explained that comprehensive assessments were required to understand the full scope of needed repairs, which took about a year and a half to complete.
In response to questions about funding, it was noted that donation money is being managed by the Berks County Community Foundation, with the Reading Pagoda Foundation contributing $100,000 towards the project.
As for the future of the Pagoda, Miranda assured the community that it will remain under city ownership and management by the Foundation for the Reading Pagoda, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
This special tour provided not only a glimpse into the past of the Reading Pagoda but also a hopeful look towards its future. The efforts of the Foundation and the City of Reading, combined with community support, aim to restore this beloved landmark to its former glory, ensuring that it continues to be a symbol of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
