About Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Bethlehem has the first National Register Historic District in Pennsylvania
It doesn't get much more historic than Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Moravian missionaries from Germany settled in eastern Pennsylvania in 1741, and named the town “Bethlehem” on Christmas Eve. And since 1937, the city has appropriately been recognized as Christmas City USA.
Bethlehem is home to the annual Tree Trail which features over 20 decorated Christmas trees in downtown during Christmas season. According to the U.S. Department of the Interior, Historic Downtown Bethlehem, is one of the "finest examples of 18th century architecture in America."
In 2024, the city’s historic Moravian Church settlement was designated a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee. The city became the 26th World Heritage site in the U.S.
In the early years of Bethlehem's history, the Moravians established a number of industries, including a tannery, a brewery, and a candle-making operation. They also established a school, a hospital, and a number of other institutions that provided social services to the community.
Over time, Bethlehem became an important center of industry and commerce in the region due to its strategic location and the development of its industrial base. The availability of natural resources, such as iron ore and coal, along with its position along the Lehigh River, facilitated the rise of heavy manufacturing.
The city's location along the Lehigh River made it an ideal location for manufacturing and transportation, and a number of factories and mills were established in the area.
Bethlehem has remained an important center of commerce and culture in the region. Presently, the city is home to a number of museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, as well as a thriving downtown area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
The city's rich history and cultural heritage continue to attract visitors from around the world. Bethlehem remains an important part of America's industrial and cultural heritage. The 18th century Moravians pioneered many things and boast two national landmark buildings within it’s national landmark district.
Historic Moravian Bethlehem was designated a National Historic Landmark District, one of only eight in Pennsylvania and one of only about 200 in the entire United States. On October 17, 2012, there were two places preserved as National Historic Landmarks, The Gemeinhaus (1741) and Bethlehem Waterworks (1762).
Today, Bethlehem is home to several higher education institutions, including Lehigh University and Moravian College, contributing to its vibrant intellectual and cultural scene. The town is also home to many firsts in American history like the first documented Christmas Tree in America (1747) decorated with apples, candles, and bible verses in the Gemeinhaus.
Bethlehem has the first National Register Historic District in Pennsylvania, the first municipal pumped water system in America, earliest industrial park in America’s original 13 Colonies and largest 18th Century log building in continuous use in America (Gemeinhaus – 1741).
The towns also has the first to educate women (Moravian University 1742), first school to teach Native American Languages (1744), oldest bookstore in the world (Moravian Book Shop 1745), oldest town clock in America (1747), oldest musical group in America (Trombone Choir 1754) in America and oldest Bach Choir in America (1898).
Bethlehem offers a blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and modern amenities, making it a unique and vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike. Whether exploring its historic landmarks, enjoying its cultural attractions, or experiencing its natural beauty, Bethlehem has something to offer everyone.