The John Updike Childhood Home, Shillington

About The John Updike Childhood Home

The John Updike Childhood Home is a museum dedicated to the author who lived there from birth through age 13. Visitors tour ten areas of exhibits that chronicle Updike's early life and his relationship with Shillington and Berks County. The house, restored to its 1932–1945 period, features signed books by Updike, photographs, and personal artifacts donated by former owners and family members. A visit includes viewing the rooms where Updike spent his formative years, with guided group tours available by appointment for book clubs and school groups. The museum operates a gift shop in the former doctor's office and an education room in the original doctor's waiting area. Educational programs include the Summer Creative Writing Workshop for Teens, directed by the museum's education director. Owned and operated by The John Updike Society, a nonprofit organization, the museum explores how Updike's formative years in this Pennsylvania home shaped his literary career.