If you have been a frequent reader of our Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors magazine, you have likely enjoyed our History Spotlight Expert, Doug Humes’ stories about Edgmont Township’s famous figures, historic buildings and steady land development. Perhaps his stories have inspired you to become a follower of the Edgmont Historical Society group on Facebook and post some fun facts that you have found.
Doug said that over the past few years, he has met a handful of Edgmont Township residents who, like him, share a deep interest in preserving the history of Edgmont to pay it forward to future generations. “To my knowledge, I have not been able to find any evidence of a formal Edgmont Historical Society,” Doug said. “I manage the Facebook group and have over 130 followers and some regular contributors, but I would really love
to formally establish a society dedicated to Edgmont Township. I believe that together, we can make a significant impact in preserving our community’s rich history and heritage.”
Today, Doug serves as the Curator, Communications Liaison and Program Director for the Newtown Square Historical Society. That group was established in 1981 when several his- torically-minded residents of Newtown Township decided to host a celebration for Newtown’s 300th anniversary. Those events led to the formal creation of the Newtown Square Historical Society in 1984. “The main purposes of the Society are to protect, preserve and promote the historic resources of the Township, as well as to tell its story,” Doug explained. “We are an all-volunteer, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization funded through member donations, fundraising and grants.” Doug added that all contributions to the Society are tax-deductible and support the work and programs of the Society.
“I am a practicing attorney and have extensive experience setting up non-profit entities,” Doug said. “I just need a group of Edgmont residents who want to make this happen to join me.” Doug has recently enlisted the help of Edgmont Township Supervisor Annie Thorne. In 2021, Annie co-founded the Connect Edgmont community group to share her love of the outdoors and advocate for outdoor recreation, open space and
community building in Edgmont Township. She is also a frequent contributor to the Edgmont Historical Society’s Facebook group, sharing stories about our many historic buildings such as the Gradyville Hotel and The John Worrall House, sometimes referred to as the “Hospital house” which is the most significant structure in Ridley Creek State Park.
Together, Doug and Annie have committed to making this all a reality. Plans are underway to hold a general interest meeting on Wednesday, September 18th. “All interested township residents are encouraged to get involved because it will take a lot of volunteer effort in many different aspects,” explained Doug. “The wonderful thing is that for every interest and every skill, there is a unique place for you to lend your expertise and talent – a place for artists, photographers, writers, teachers, catalogers, guides, event planners, and business people.” He added that each contribution is invaluable and will help shape the future of our community’s history.
If you are interested in becoming a founding member of the Edgmont Historical Society, follow their Facebook page or send Doug Humes a message at HumesLaw@verizon.net. Details on the September 18th meeting will be announced in the coming weeks.