History of Berks County - Penn Township
The following is reproduced from the 1876 Atlas of Berks County, Pennsylvania
Like Ontelaunee, Penn is a new township, having been formed from Upper Bern and Bern. It is bounded on the north by Upper Bern; on the east by Centre and Bern; on the south by North and Lower Heidelbergs; on the west by North Heidelberg and Jefferson. Notwithstanding the soil is principally of gravel formation, the improvements made since its settlement have greatly increased its productive capacity, and bounteous harvests are obtained by the industrious farmer. The principal streams are the Tulpehocken, and the Northkill. Besides these, there are several smaller creeks within the limits of the township.
The borough of Bernville is included within the limits of Penn. It is a place of considerable importance. The South Mountain Railroad, now in process of construction, will pass through the borough. A new impetus will thus be given to the industries of Bernville, and it will rapidly increase in wealth and in population. Mount Pleasant situated in Penn township, is a thriving village.