John Updike’s Childhood Home

On Saturday September 10th I had the pleasure of visiting John Updike’s childhood home at 117 Philadelphia Avenue in Shillington. John lived here from his birth in 1932 until he was 13 years old. It is widely known that Shillington and the city of Reading were the inspirational foundation behind many of his stories and novels.

His most famous 4-part “Rabbit” novel series was set around a character living in Reading; though the locations were renamed in the book.… Read Full Article

Santa Lands a Helicopter in City Park – On this day in 1955

Happy Thanksgiving Berks Nostalgiacs! The holiday season is here, so here is a peek back to that time that Santa Claus flew a helicopter and landed it at City Park in Reading. It happened on this day, November 25th, 1955.

Santa lands helicopter city park
Nov. 25th 1955 Reading Eagle

Two little girls served as a reception committee for Santa Claus after he landed his helicopter in City Park this morning.Read Full Article

Berks Nostalgia