Muhlenberg Greene Architects, Ltd. (MGA) partnered with Berks History Center (BHC) to celebrate the 135th birthday of their founder, Frederick A. Muhlenberg, FAIA, on Friday, September 23, 2022, inside the BHC Museum’s Terrence E. Connor Auditorium, 940 Centre Ave., Reading, Pa., 19601.
The event commenced with a presentation from BHC Assistant Director, Bradley Smith, who recounted the fascinating history of the Muhlenberg family. BHC trustee, Rick Polytika, also educated community members about a number of well-known Reading buildings designed or remodeled by Muhlenberg, including Stokesay Castle, the YMCA of Reading, Gillman’s, and St. Joseph’s Hospital.
Following the presentations, guests were encouraged to enjoy cake and light refreshments while touring the BHC Museum to view an exhibit of rare architectural renderings hand-drawn by Muhlenberg, compliments of the MGA archives. A collection of Muhlenberg’s military medals and several of his achievement awards were also on display.
“It was a pleasure working with MGA on this collaborative event and display,” said BHC Museum Curator, Amber Vroman. “Frederick Muhlenberg was an incredible man who dedicated his entire life to service; the exhibit and architectural renderings highlight his contributions to local architecture, his dedicated sacrifices in both world wars, his roles in local and federal government, and his commitment to serving his community.”
Frederick Augustus Muhlenberg was born in Reading, Pa. on September 25, 1887, to Dr. William Frederick Muhlenberg (1852-1915) and Henrietta Augusta Muhlenberg (181852-1890). Muhlenberg was a graduate of Gettysburg College in 1908 and the University of Pennsylvania School of Architecture in 1912. In May 1917, he enlisted in the United States Army. During World War I, Muhlenberg was a captain in the 314th Infantry. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, a Purple Heart for being wounded and gassed, and the Croix de Guerre from France. After the war, Muhlenberg founded Muhlenberg Greene Architects, Ltd. in Reading where he grew up and lived most of his life. Muhlenberg returned to the military during World War II, served as a U.S. Congressman, and was an active member of numerous community organizations.
Community members interested in viewing this limited-time exhibit can do so by visiting the BHC during their hours of operation, Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., from now until Saturday, October 8, 2022. For more information, please call 610-375-4375.
