Members of the newly formed South Whitehall Township Historical Society toured several historic properties owned by Jeras Corporation on May 26.

The tour, organized by Frank Scattene, project manager for Jeras Corporation, began at the Reverend Abraham Blumer House and Barn on Iron Bridge Road.

Blumer played a key role in the hiding of the Liberty Bell in Allentown.

Participants visited a number of historic structures throughout the township, learning about their history and preservation potential.

Sites included the Daniel Troxell House, barn and blacksmith shop; the Peter Troxell House (circa 1752-1804), believed to be the oldest surviving house in Lehigh County; the Minnich House (1854) and barn (1806); the Leh House (circa 1825); the Runk House and barn associated with John Roth Jr. (1775); the Lichtenwalner House (1793) and barn (1831); and the Scheirer Barn and Boyer House (1829).

Tour guides highlighted the historical significance of the Reverend Blumer House, built in 1785, including its connection to the Liberty Bell.

Jeras Corporation and the Bronstein family have long been involved in preserving historic and agricultural resources in South Whitehall Township.

According to a 2021 guest column by Elizabeth “Betsy” Bronstein Koontz, the family’s ties to the area date back to 1905.

The family later became associated with the former Trojan Powder Company property, which was sold in 1967.

The tour comes as discussions continue regarding the proposed Atlas data center project.

Documents submitted as part of the proposal state that Jeras Corporation anticipates donating more than 100 acres of open space along the Jordan Creek corridor and supporting preservation efforts involving several historic properties, including the 1744 House and the Reverend Blumer House/Ross House.

Project documents describe the donation as part of a potential public-private partnership involving Jeras Corporation, Edged Data Centers and South Whitehall Township.

Participants were reminded that the historic buildings visited during the tour are located on private property and are not open to the public.