Bringing History to Life at Vault 634
Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to step back in time? What if you could lift the veil between “now” and “then” to catch a glimpse of the 17th century? The architecture of Allentown has gradually transformed over the years as modern development rose alongside historic landmarks in Allentown, PA. Drive along Hamilton Street and you’ll notice a blend of old and new buildings, each with stories to tell and each contributing to the future of the Lehigh Valley.
The history of Vault 634 stands side by side with the surrounding landscape, including the Soldiers and Sailors Monument in Center Square. Hamilton Street offers visitors the rare feeling of stepping between past and present—where black and white comes vividly to life in color. Step inside one of the historic buildings on Hamilton Street and discover how Vault 634 brings history to life.
Lehigh Valley Trust Company Façade
At first glance, Vault 634 greets visitors with a historic façade adorned with Corinthian-style pillars and intricate marble details that create a powerful first impression that transports you back in time. The original Lehigh Valley Trust Company sign, the erection date plaque in Roman numerals, and the Vault Alarm stand as testaments to the building’s history. At the top of the façade, regal stone lions stand guard. Together, these details serve as a breathtaking portal to the Gilded Age within.
The Great Hall
As you enter Vault 634, you’re welcomed into a room filled with stunning 1920s architectural details. This space is filled with details and historic spaces as soon as you walk through the door.
900-Square-Foot-Stained-Glass Ceiling
It’s hard to know where to look first, but we suggest looking up. A breathtaking 900-square-foot stained-glass ceiling crowns the historic space—an authentic masterpiece that was carefully restored during the renovation.
Hess Chandeliers
Illuminating the room are the iconic Hess chandeliers, originally from Hess’s Department Store, an Allentown landmark until its closure in the 1990s. Before its renovation in 2018, the Great Hall looked very different. When the building was purchased, two staircases led to the mezzanine level. During the renovation, those staircases were replaced with the Grand Staircase, which has since become one of the venue’s most iconic locations for wedding portraits. If you’re looking for the perfect setting for ceremonies, corporate meetings, luncheons, or other intimate gatherings, the mezzanines provide an elegant space worthy of any occasion.
Vault Doors & Signature Vault Bar
In the Great Hall, you’ll also find the original bank vault doors from the Lehigh Valley Trust Company. These impressive doors once safeguarded important customer documents, cash, checks, and other valuables integral to the bank’s operations. One of these vault doors was turned into our signature Vault Bar, which now serves cocktails, mocktails and more to guests.
Secretary and Presidents Offices
What is now the Ready Rooms for the bride and groom used to be the secretary and presidents’ offices for the leadership of the Lehigh Valley Trust Company. While you get ready for your walk down the aisle, look around the space and imagine all the history etched into those walls.
The Fritz Speakeasy
Below the Great Hall awaits an intimate speakeasy, The Fritz, complete with a custom bar designed in the style of an authentic Chicago taproom. This private space holds memories both old and new, having once served as a storage area for the Lehigh Valley Trust Company.
Surrounding the speakeasy bar are several historic artifacts that pay tribute to the building’s storied past.
Coupon Booths
Did you know that traditional coupon booths have evolved from physical booths into a digital brokerage platform? While these private spaces once served purposes like clipping and managing coupons from bond certificates or handling confidential documents, their historical charm now sits within our hidden speakeasy. Though these coupon booths are no longer used for their original purpose, they now serve as a unique backdrop for couples, cocktail tables, and conversation as new memories are created in their midst.
Curio Cabinet
The curio cabinet in the speakeasy is filled with memorabilia from the Lehigh Valley Trust Company and Allentown, PA. From vintage bank slips to historic postcards, these original pieces serve as reminders of the rich history throughout the space. Want to know a fun fact? The owner of the building’s family once banked there!
Safety Deposit Box Room
Vault 634 also features an original safety deposit box room in the basement. Now transformed into a speakeasy, the former vault area offers the perfect photo opportunity for event guests and a stunning portrait location for newlyweds. These unique historic elements weave the building’s rich past into the love stories created at Vault 634, making every glance and photograph feel timeless.
Combine History and Your Love Story at Vault 634
With every small detail of our space, we tell a story of our local history. After all, it’s all in the details. We hope that when you step into Vault 634, you are welcomed by the familiar spirit of Allentown—the same spirit that runs from Hamilton Street through our front doors.
It’s not every day that you step into a historic venue like Vault 634, which is why hosting your event at Vault 634 will wow your guests at every turn—don’t just take our word for it, look at our testimonials to see for yourself.
Invite guests to bask in a space filled with over a century of Allentown history, inquire with our event team today.