Allentown PA Moving Companies

Allentown, Pennsylvania

Allentown, Pennsylvania is a section of Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley, the state's third largest metropolitan area. The Lehigh Valley is a flourishing community exemplified by its lively metropolitan areas surrounded by scenic countryside. Recently, this exciting moving destination city has experience a shift from a primarily manufacturing-based financial system to a community with a wealth of service industries and a diverse economy.

History:
In 1838, the city officially adopted the name Allentown. The 1850s and 1860s saw the rise of a strong local iron industry. The nation's growing railroad system soaked up all the iron Allentown was producing at the time. By the end of the Civil War era, a large influx of German and Irish workers had created a mini-Pittsburgh along the banks of the Lehigh. Nevertheless, all of this prosperity collapsed with the end of the railroad boom in the Panic of 1873. Iron furnaces began closing one by one and sent the industry into a tailspin from which it would never recovered. By the beginning of the 20th century, the community had completely recovered from the economic disasters of the 19th century. Silk mills had taken over from the dying iron trade, but they were not alone. Allentown's diverse economy produced everything from beer and cigars to parlor furniture. Since World War II, Allentown has undergone another shift. Faced with the decline of manufacturing and the rise of the service sector, the city is once again dealing with change. Allentown City officials are constantly attempting to attract business to the downtown area, largely as a method to find new uses for existing structures.

Economy:
Manufacturing was once the dominant activity in the Allentown metropolitan area. Today, it continues to decline, and is currently responsible for just 15 percent of total employment in the city. The service sector now dominates employment in the city, mainly in the area of health services. Jobs in this sector continue to increase at a rapid pace; many businesses report having trouble finding qualified workers available positions. The metropolitan area is home to major corporations such as Bethlehem Steel and Mack Trucks, as well as other successful companies such as PPL Corporation Air Products and Chemicals. Today, plans are underway in Allentown for a downtown revival project that includes a new attraction, Lehigh Landing. One of the projects planned is a multiplex on a former industrial property along the Lehigh River. Several older industrial facilities will be renovated, using a combination of public and private funds. The Lehigh Landing project includes a river walk and a tie-in to the Delaware and Lehigh Canal, as well as boating activities along the river. With all of these opportunities, it's no wonder why so many Allentown moving companies are so busy.

Tourism:
Planning a day in Allentown, Pennsylvania depends entirely upon personal interests, since the city truly has something for everyone. For the history buff, learn about the city’s history and culture on a walking tour of the Historic District, which includes Trout Hall, the Liberty Bell Shrine Museum and the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. Native American culture can be learned at the Lenni Lenape Historical Society and Museum of Indian Culture. Lovers of fine art will want to explore the Allentown Art Museum, which offers an excellent collections and exhibitions from famous artists. Shoppers will enjoy the variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods and meats at the Allentown Farmers Market. Sports and outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s expansive park system. Or choose to picnic creek-side, enjoy a leisurely walk or participate in a game of basketball, volleyball or tennis; and golf enthusiasts can practice their short game at the Allentown Golf Club. If it is family fun you are after, Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, the area’s premier amusement park and water park, are awaiting.

Colleges/Universities:

• Muhlenberg College
• Pennsylvania School of Business
• Cedar Crest College

Interesting Facts:

• Billy Joel wrote the song "Allentown" with the emphasis on the rust belt: "Well we're living here in Allentown And they're closing all the factories down"
• The city was originally named Northampton Town. It was changed to Allentown in 1838 because that is what residents had called it for years