Belt Running Day
September 26, 2026 · 10:00 AM · Berks County Heritage Center, 1102 Red Bridge Road, Reading · Free, open to the public
About the event
The Berks County Heritage Center turns on the machinery for a day at the Gruber Wagon Works, a National Historic Landmark that stands as one of the most complete rural wagon factories left in the country. Built by Franklin H. Gruber and carried on by his sons, the shop produced farm wagons and other custom vehicles from raw wood and iron, and the building was moved in sections to its present home along Tulpehocken Creek so it could be preserved.
The centerpiece is the line shaft and belt system that once powered the machines throughout the factory, put into motion for the public just once a year. Belts run from 11:00 am until 4:00 pm, and the 15 horsepower Otto hit and miss engine that supplied the shop's power is demonstrated at 11:30 am, 1:00 pm, and 2:30 pm.
The Wagon Works stays open all day with guides stationed through the museum to answer questions and explain what each room did. The C. Howard Heister Canal Museum is also open for self-guided visits, making it a full morning and afternoon of local history for visitors of any age.
