Even though you may think you know Allentown, Pennsylvania, there may be some interesting facts that have escaped your attention. From the city’s history and culture, you can learn some amazing tidbits that, if nothing else, will impress your friends when you drop the information in conversation at the next social gathering. Check out these three interesting facts about Allentown.

1. It Once Hid the Liberty Bell

In July, 1776, some early patriots rang what became known as the Liberty Bell to mark the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence. Though it’s now at the Liberty Bell Center in Philadelphia, the famous bell once spent time in Allentown. In 1777, a group of people hid the bell in the basement of an Allentown church to prevent the British soldiers from finding it. To this day, Zion’s Reformed United Church of Christ is known as “The Liberty Bell Church” and hosts a historical museum commemorating the role it played in protecting the bell.

2. The Pennsylvania Dutch Aren’t Dutch

Allentown is home to people known as the Pennsylvania Dutch. Known for their plain clothing and unwillingness to embrace modern conveniences like cars and electricity, the Pennsylvania Dutch aren’t from Holland. They’re Deutsch, meaning they’re from Germany. Even though the name is inaccurate, the name Pennsylvania Dutch has stuck.

3. Pop Culture References to Allentown Abound

I Love You to Death, The Hangover Part II, and The Wrestler are three films that reference Allentown. Billy Joel’s song “Allentown” and Frank Sinatra’s “The Train” mention the city.

These are just a sample of the interesting facts about this city in eastern Pennsylvania.

Image via Flickr by chrisinphilly5448

 

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