Shared Reading Historic Districts's photo ~ " Better Shoes by Farr" was the slogan of this Penn Square staple for shoes for all. Located on the southwest corner of 5th and Penn Streets the exterior featured a streamlined Art Modern style with the signature oversized boot. However, what most people never realized is that behind that sleek building facade was a much earlier structure. The 2nd photo shows. This 18th century structure, Built circa 1761 existed behind the 1940's Farr's facade until the building was demolished in 2005. The structure was probably the oldest building to exist on Penn Square until being torn down for the Sovereign Plaza (now known as Santander Plaza).

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Today's image is how most folks will remember Whitner's Department Store in downtown Reading. In addition to clothing, accessories, and giftware, the full service store also featured a restaurant, beauty salon, and fur salon. What was your favorite part of a visit to Whitner's? Remember to share our page and tell your friends to " like" our main page.