Village Architecture & Preservation

09/07/2026

As you make your plans for the coming fall season, please set time aside this coming weekend to attend the Hay Creek Valley Historical Association Fall Festival at Historic Joanna Furnace Iron Works. This year is a special one, during which Friday through Sunday will be offering extra unique and memorable events to celebrate its 50th anniversary of protecting and caring for Joanna Furnace. Help celebrate Berks County history and support your local historic resource!

09/07/2026

On this Labor Day, we take a moment to recognize the historical significance of this day, which began in the late 19th century as a tribute to the American labor movement. It serves as a reminder of the crucial role workers play in shaping our communities and driving the prosperity of our nation. As we celebrate, let us also reflect on the importance of labor rights and the dedication of workers everywhere. Thank you for your contributions!

09/01/2026

I have my backpack, do you have yours? 🎒School is back in session...let's get to work! 🍎🚍🏫

08/27/2026

Hadn't intended to jump on the Dolly bandwagon (Lord rest her sweet soul), but this quote really spoke to me. She was full of heartfelt wisdom.
Sharing for my kids. And yours.

08/26/2026

Did you know...?
Biophilic Design incorporates forms and elements that enhance the sensations created by air, light, and space. Living walls, natural or diffuse daylighting, organic shapes and patterns, outdoor views, natural materials, water features, and indoor gardens are just a few of the methods of connecting building users to nature indoors.
Biophilic Design is reported to improve overall physical and mental wellness, focus, creativity, stress management, and workplace satisfaction.
Do you feel better when you've connected with nature? I know I do.

08/26/2026

This is a very exciting initiative to document and celebrate Pennsylvania's historical barns.
It was an honor for VA&P to contribute to the Park Open Space and Barn Preservation Master Plan. Thanks to the for bringing attention to these important features of Pennsylvania history.

Called “PABarn250,” the documentary features the history, the architectural character and the direct role some of the barns played in supporting the Revolutionary War.

08/26/2026

Who else *loves* historical drawings? 😍
Happy back-to-school week! 📚✏️📓

🎓Time for School!🎓

Today, children head back off to school for the first day of school in the 2026-2027 school year. For the Potts family, education looked just a bit different. During the early years for the children, they were tutored in the home by a private tutor.

Once they were old enough, they were sent off to boarding schools in Philadelphia! Two of the Potts children would go off to college, with Jonathan briefly studying medicine in Edinburgh, and John Jr. studying law in London.

Image is a 1780 sketch by Pierre Simitiere of the Academy and College of Philadelphia, overlayed with scans of the John Potts Sr. Household Ledger.

08/26/2026

Very informative and engaging session at the TriCounty Area Chamber of Commerce Construction Services Roundtable. Great group of local professionals in a wide range of building-related industries. Thank you for the opportunity to connect!

08/25/2026

Exciting progress at our multi-use commercial rehab project in Boyertown. Keep your eyes open for a new restaurant coming to town next door!

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