Berks Places: Conrad Weiser Homestead not just a walk in the park

Jun. 27—The Conrad Weiser Homestead in Heidelberg Township was established as a historic site in 1923 on a small portion of the American Indian negotiator's original land grant.

Johann Conrad Weiser Jr. was born Nov. 2, 1696, in Herrenberg, Germany. The surrounding area is known as the Palantine region, where many Pennsylvania Germans descended from. Weiser lived in England for a short time with his father and seven siblings after his mother died, according to the American Association of Teachers of German. The family immigrated to New York and eventually settled in Schoharie County.

The Berks History Center says the younger Weiser came to Berks in 1729.

"The Conrad Weiser Homestead commemorates the life of Conrad Weiser, one of the most influential Pennsylvania Germans in Colonial Pennsylvania," said David Sonnen, president of the Friends of the Conrad Weiser Homestead. "In addition to his role as an interpreter between the Provincial government and the Iroquois Confederacy, he was the driving force behind the creation of Berks County."

In addition to being Berks' first president judge, Weiser was commander of frontier forts along the Blue Mountains during the French and Indian War, Sonnen explained.

"The 26 acres that comprise the Conrad Weiser Homestead and Memorial Park offer the residents of Berks County and surrounding communities a unique historical experience in a picturesque setting," Sonnen said.

The homestead was added to the National Register of Historic Places Oct. 15, 1966.

Sonnen was asked what the most interesting feature of the homestead is.

"One of my favorites is the exhibit in the north room of the Weiser House," he replied. "It includes biographical information on some of the numerous people who were documented visitors to Weiser's home. It is fascinating to see the diversity of people with whom Weiser was meeting.

"In addition to local merchants and businessmen, the biographies include religious leaders, Native Americans, and influencers in the fields of politics and science, including Benjamin Franklin and John Bartram."

He said there is an abundance of wildlife to observe at the homestead, which makes it popular for walkers.

A lot of people spend time enjoying the grounds but don't get the full experience.

"I think what people often miss is a visit to the historic area," Sonnen said. "On the days we are open, we usually have four buildings open to the public. Three of them contain exhibits and collections illustrating various topics such as the Palatine immigration to New York and to the Tulpehocken Valley, Weiser's involvement with the provincial government and Native Americans, Weiser's family life in Womesldorf, and the grassroots efforts to establish the memorial park in the early part of the 20th century.

"There have been many times when we have visitors from local communities who indicate that they have lived near Womesldorf their entire lives and have never taken a tour or been inside the buildings."

There are special events held there throughout the spring, summer and fall.

One upcoming event is the Ringgold Band Concert, set for July 3 at 5 p.m. The annual program honors all military veterans. Admission and parking are free. A free-will donation will be accepted. Those planning to attend should bring a lawn chair or blanket. The rain date is Sept. 4 at 3 p.m.

July 10 there will be a special presentation at 2 p.m. commemorating the anniversary of the July 13, 1760, death of Conrad Weiser.

Events continue throughout the year.

If you go to Conrad Weiser Homestead

Address: 28 Weiser Lane, Heidelberg Township

Hours: Wednesday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday noon to 4 p.m. (summer 2022). The park is open year-round from dawn until dusk.

Phone: 610-589-2934

Website: Conradweiserhomestead.org

Size: 26 acres

Number of buildings: Seven, three open for touring

Picnic areas: Two, no reservations necessary.