“Accidentally discovered” by two farmers in 1871, Crystal Cave’s Kathy Campbell shares a riveting look into the depths of this Kutztown natural wonder. Describing cavern tours for the past 145 years, she tells how tourists first arrived on horseback and stagecoach staying overnight in the onsite hotel with Coal oil lanterns, torches, and tallow candles providing illumination for people climbing over rocks and transcending wooden ladders.
J. Douglas Kaufman and Edwin DeLong purchased the property in 1923 from the Kohler family with the anticipation of making extensive underground and aboveground improvements. Concrete walks and stairways were installed inside the cave with a new prominent entrance built. The hotel was closed to overnight guests and became a gift shop also serving meals.
During the 1950’s and 1960’s a refreshment stand and large souvenir store were added to the delight of tourists evolving further in the 1970’s. An ice cream parlor, additional food building, miniature golf course, and theater featuring an educational movie presentation were constructed.
Today, panning for gemstones a historical exhibit and museum operate on a seasonal basis. While exterior surroundings and accommodations may have evolved over time, Crystal Cave remains impervious with spectacular stalagmites, massive rocks growing out of the cave’s floor; and stalactites, large dripstones hanging from the ceiling, astounding generations of guests.
The Kaufman and DeLong families continue to operate Crystal Cave. Douglas S. Kaufman, son of J. Douglas Kaufman, was president from 1972 – 2007 with his daughter our narrator, Kathryn Campbell, assuming the position for the past nine years. Edwin DeLong’s grandson, James DeLong, is the company manager with ownership and operation, translating to multi-generational enjoyment for all, anticipated for years to come.
Crystal Cave
963 Crystal Cave Road, Kutztown
(610) 683-6765
Discover More to Explore Here: www.crystalcavepa.com
