The Berks History Center (BHC) is proud to announce its strong support for the preservation and restoration of the Kemp Family Burial Ground located in Maxatawny Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania.
Several weeks ago, it was reported by the Reading Eagle that Duke Realty, an Indiana-based developer, submitted plans with Maxatawny Township to construct a warehouse atop a burial ground that houses the remains of some of Berks County’s earliest settlers, including Theobault (Dewalt) Kemp (1685-1760).
In response, numerous community members and Kemp family descendants started an initiative in partnership with the Kutztown Area Historical Society to file a petition and seek legal recourse.
“It’s our sincere wish for Duke Realty, the Kemp family descendants, and the Kutztown Area Historical Society to find a way to preserve this important and unique link to our past,” stated a resolution passed by BHC’s Board of Trustees. “The BHC appreciates the significance of protecting and preserving properties, tangible artifacts and priceless stories of our community’s unique cultural history. The Kemps were key contributors in early Berks County history and BHC empathizes with their descendants’ hopes and desires to have their family be remembered, and their earthly remains to be respected and allowed to rest in peace.”
To participate or support the initiative, please contact the Kutztown Area Historical Society, or mail a check with the memo line “Donor – match campaign, Historic Kemp Family Burial Ground” to:
Kutztown Area Historical Society
P.O. Box 307
Normal Avenue and Whiteoak Street
Kutztown, PA 19530
