Backgroud. |
In the beginning....
In the early 1700s, the land now occupied by the city of Allentown was a wilderness of scrub oak where tribes of Native Americans fished for trout and hunted game. In 1736, a large area to the north of Philadelphia, including what is now Allentown was deeded by 23 chiefs of the five great Native American nations to three of William Penn's sons. |
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The Founding
William Allen was a wealthy merchant, attorney, Chief Justice of the Province of Philadelphia, and mayor of Philadlphia during the colonial period. At the time of the American Revolution, Allen was one of the wealthiest and most powerful men in Philadelphia. Allen built the country estate, Mount Airy outside of Philadelphia, and owned a large hunting lodge in Allentown, Pennsylvania, the city he founded in 1762.
William Allen
Chief Justice of Colonial Pennsylvania's Supreme Court (b. August 5, 1704 – d. September 6, 1780) |
"Allentown was originally named Northamptontown by its founder, Chief Justice of Colonial Pennsylvania's Supreme Court, William Allen. Allen, also a former Mayor of Philadelphia and successful businessman, drew up plans for the rural village in 1762. Despite its formal name, from the beginning, nearly everyone called it "Allen's town." "
-allentownpa.gov |
Where are We Now?
A brief sidetrack to the present...
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Compared to US Cities
224th Largest |
Meet the Mayor
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"Renaissance City"
The City of Allentown is truly a “City without Limits!”
Allentown is comprised of several different unique business districts, all with their own identity and flair. The Seventh Street Business District represents the “gateway” to the community, where small business owners and residents can enjoy the “neighborhood living” of local pharmacies, restaurants, and retail establishments. The West End District is considered the “theatre district” of Allentown and is comprised of a civic theatre, a black box theatre; several acclaimed restaurants, and various local retailers. The Hamilton Street Business District is the primary downtown location where all of new construction, arena development, and activity is occurring.
-allentownpa.gov
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