colonial industrial quarter

this is the most unique part of historic bethlehem in that it is the first industrial quarter in the nation. it's a must see, but especially in the summer when they have demonstrations. i took my wedding photos there!!

Several building to explore and paths to walk to see some areas of Historic Bethlehem. We started a pre-wedding 5 k in this area.

It was interesting to see the old building and the blacksmith. We went during blueberry season, the only blueberry we could find was blueberry beer, but overall a nice day. Bethlehem brew works on the corner, was really good.

I really enjoyed learning about the different industrial buildings used by the early Moravians. The working blacksmith in period garb is a very nice addition. However, they desperately need grant money to finish reconstructing the buildings and clean the signs. It's a nice, free place to wander. Warning: In the summer, the sun is very strong and hot. There's not much shade.

Clustered along the Monocacy Creek, the massive stone structures give you the sense that the miller might step through the door at any moment or that a gaggle of ladies might pass you on the way to the dye house. You can read about history and how the people managed their town or about the industries they built but until you walk among the buildings, listening to the creek and the birdsong with the noises of modern traffic muffled by trees and distance you don't really get a sense of the scope of it. Wear good shoes for walking/hiking. The blacksmith shop (which usually has a smith working on weekends) is at street level next to historic Hotel Bethlehem and across from the Moravian Bookshop. The rest is at creek level down a good 60 feet.

I was a bit disappointed buy this site after it was mentioned in my 1000 Places to See US Edition as the buildings are just buildings, except for the blacksmith's shop. There are signs explaining what each building was, but if you have been to historic city (I have been to many), you have seen similar if not better examples of the buildings. Go if you are in Bethlehem; it is worth a few minutes of your time.

I have visited here before, but this time the Blacksmith was working in the Blacksmith building. This was quite a wonderful experience to see him work. We sat and watched him make a hook. He is also very knowledgable about the history so it was very nice talking to him and learning a little more history. This is my 3rd visit to Bethlehem and was really happy to see the Blacksmith open and working!

We enjoyed walking around the industrial quarter. It took some effort to figure out where to go and honestly, there were only a few signs to explain the location but if you enjoy history, I think that its worth the trip. As you get to the top of the hill, youll find an information center and some shops that may be of interest as well.

The Moravians have done a great job preserving, restoring and documenting these old buildings. The descriptive plaques are truly fascinating reading. A comfortable stroll through the past. Take the time to enjoy it.

Our planned activity for the day didn't start until 10, so we were looking for something to pass the time. Found this online and decided to give it a try. A little buggy, but otherwise, a nice walk, interesting buildings and great history.

Historic Bethlehem is a very nice place to visit. We went early in the morning when everything was closed. It was just nice to see some history. Later in the day everything is open. I do not know if you have to pay when it is open, but we did not have to in the early morning. Afterwards, go walk up and down main street and then through the residential areas to see more historic homes and businesses.

We walked through the historic structures and along the creek. Was great but you couldn't get away from the traffic noise.

The blacksmith shop was open today and we had the opportunity to see the smith in action. Very cool and amazing that these buildings have been preserved. The placards provided an excellent overview of the history. Who knew the Moravians were so important in America's history. Don't forget to stop upstairs to visit the gift shop - limited items like beeswax candles and holders that make great gifts.

The Moravians settled in Bethlehem in 1741 and became self sufficient by developing this area to produce most things that the community needed. There are guided walking tours starting at the Visitors Center and also placards with information at some of the buildings. There is a tannery, springhouse, mill and waterworks. The area is near the Hotel Bethlehem.

Had about an hour before we had to head off somewhere and glad we stopped here to see the colonial buildings. Enjoyed learning the history of the area. When we went, the blacksmith shop was operating. Wished there were more detailed markings at the buildings so that we could learn more and that we could have see inside more of the buildings.