Vintage postcard of Mt. Penn Hotel and Tower

[Mr2]

Someone recently shared this photo/portrait with me. Can anyone clarify a few things:

> Is this the Fire Tower. Why does it look "wrong"... shorter? Did they add to it as the trees grew taller?

> Did a trolley travel on Duryea Drive, or is this the so called Cable car?

It just looks wrong to me. Any input is appreciated.

[Rich Rock]

Nope, that's not the fire tower. The building in the picture burned and the tower was built on that site. The Mount Penn Gravity Railroad had a stop at the top. More info at www.pagodaskyline.org and www.berkshistory.org

[Ron Mann]

I had this pix handy...pretty cool. I have a few more that I can post.

[Rich Rock]

Here's a link to some good info on what used to be... www.berkshistory.org/articles/gravity.html

[Mr2]

Thank you both. Interesting history I did not know, even growing up here.
That helps explain my curiosity in coasting down all the time...

[georgebowland]

Great piece of history. Always interesting to read about those who have gone before us and especially when it was 130 years ago. The innovative nature of America at that time always amazes me. I look forward to seeing the old rail cars next time I visit. The story also explains how America was changed quickly by the building of the automobile.
George