1956 Map of Hamburg

About this map

Blue Mountain serves as the dominant spine of this mid-century landscape, separating the agricultural valleys of Berks and Lehigh counties from the coal-region foothills to the north. The area is defined by its deep cultural roots and geological landmarks, from the Kutztown State Teachers College in the south to the world-renowned Hawk Mountain Sanctuary near Eckville. The 1950s terrain is dotted with small-scale industry and tourism, featuring subterranean attractions like Crystal Cave and Onyx Cave. Transportation follows the valley floors, with the Reading Railroad and Lehigh Valley Railroad paralleling the Schuylkill River and Lizard Creek. Local history is preserved in the numerous country schools and churches, including New Bethel Ch and the Old Order Ch, which anchor long-established rural communities such as New Tripoli and Lenhartsville.