Keim Homestead

Keim Homestead is an 18th-century stone house in Pike Township, Pennsylvania, built around a central fireplace system. The building preserves original woodwork, large walk-in fireplaces, and three interconnected living spaces from this period.

Johannes Keim arrived from Germany in 1698 and started the initial settlement here in 1706. His son Jacob built the current stone house in 1753, showing how the second generation began constructing more permanent structures.

The house displays German building practices through its tile stove and central hearth arrangement that families would gather around. The stone construction and room layout reflect methods brought directly from the Rhineland region, shaping how German settlers organized their homes in Pennsylvania.

The property is managed by the Historic Preservation Trust of Berks County and can be visited by appointment only. Plan your visit ahead of time to confirm the house is open when you want to go.

The house retains an original Chevron door on the second floor, a rare feature of German colonial architecture that few notice. The property also includes a separate outbuilding with a vaulted root cellar that once served as a turner's workshop.