There are several breweries at Reading, the largest of which is that of Messrs. H. and G. Simmonds, who contract for the whole of the refreshments on the South-Eastern Railway; and next to them are the good old ales of Mr. Dymore Brown. In opposition to the breweries is a very strong temperance movement in Reading, aided by several leading firms, and by Mrs. Reaney, the authoress of many popular tales. The Royal Berkshire Hospital, situate in the London-road, is one of the greatest blessings in the county. It was founded May 13, 1837, and when it was opened, in 1839, it was under the patronage of Queen Adelaide. Her Majesty Queen Victoria is now a patron. As many as 40,000 patients have received relief from the institution. The hospital overlooks the picturesque village of Caversham, and the island where Prince Rupert and the Earl of Essex crossed swords.
Source: The Illustrated London News, July 8, 1882, p.45