West Reading, PA
Music connected to West Reading
About West Reading
- • Taylor Swift, the globally renowned singer-songwriter, spent her early childhood in West Reading.
- • Customers Bank, now a large financial institution, originated in West Reading.
- • The Reading Railroad spurred growth, connecting the borough to national markets.
- • An underground tunnel system exists below Penn Avenue, its purpose largely forgotten.
- • The Schuylkill River flood of 1972 caused significant damage and lasting changes.
- • Named for its location west of Reading, it was incorporated as a borough in 1907.
- • The population nears 4,300, smaller than many surrounding townships.
- • The elevation is roughly 300 feet, offering gentle slopes toward the Schuylkill River.
- • Healthcare and retail are major employers, serving the local and regional population.
- • A cozy, walkable community with a strong sense of local pride and community events.
- • The Philadelphia Phillies, a close MLB team, won the 2008 World Series.
- • Reading High School's basketball team has a storied history of state championships.