The Self Made Man

Born to humble beginnings, Asa Packer came here from Mystic, Connecticut. His successful ventures in canal boat building, farming, and running a general store provided the money to build the Lehigh Valley Railroad. His interest in his fellowman's well being led him into politics and public service, and he served as Carbon County judge for five years, later serving in the Pennsylvania State Legislature and two terms as United States Congressman. At the Democratic National Convention of 1868, he stood as a presidential nominee. During his 74 years, he gave millions of dollars to charitable causes, and his single greatest act of generosity founded Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA. The Packer children continued his legacy by building hospitals, schools, churchs, and fire companies throughout the area and beyond. In 1912, with the death of his last child, Mary Packer Cummings, the Borough of Mauch Chunk inherited the home and its contents, and the Jim Thorpe Lions Club opened the home to the public in 1956, overseeing the landmark property ever since.

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania · United States