Newtown Square Historical Society
Welcome to the Newtown Square Historical Society. Founded in 1981 by civic minded residents, the society continues its mission to preserve the rich history of Newtown Township. They offer multiple programs to reach out to their community, volunteer opportunities for residents of all ages and events throughout the year at their many historic locations. Please browse their website and vast pictorial history of the town and consider becoming a member.
Featured Contributions
History Spotlight: Lane’s End
Each parcel of land has its unique history, told in successive chapters. The Sill family owned a 92-acre farm along West Chester Pike from 1721 until 1926, and built the stone house and barn on the property.
History Spotlight: Howellville and Gradyville
Who was Gradyville named for? The simple answer is State Senator John Cadwalader Grady. But the back story is more complex. And interesting. And like so many interesting stories, it begins with a tavern.
History Spotlight: Edgmont - Creating a Community of Volunteers
In 1995, there was no community-wide celebration in Newtown Square. But one was planned. The Newtown Square Historical Society hosted a full day of activities to highlight the history of the township.
History Spotlight: Notorious Fitz, The Real Sandy Flash
First things first: no Virginia, there was no Sandy Flash.
History Spotlight: There’s a Great Road in Edgmont!
When William Penn’s settlers began arriving in Edgmont Township in the 1680s, they found a…
History Spotlight: The Last of the Okehockings
Before William Penn, the Swedes and Dutch settled the Delaware Valley, there were the native…
History Spotlight: The Cold War Comes to Delco
World War II ended in August 1945, but the “Cold War” essentially began at the same time. The struggle between democratic capitalism and authoritarian communism lasted for most of the 20th century.
History Spotlight: The President Tavern
After Delaware County was split off from Chester County in 1789, a new road was…
History Spotlight: Time Travel at the Firehouse
Carl Ewing, past Chief the Newtown Square Fire Company is now the “Official Time Capsule Opener.” When the first firehouse building was built in 1916, a copper box was sealed in the cornerstone.
History Spotlight: Ratifying the U.S. Constitution
Each September we recognize Constitution Day on September 17th, to celebrate the U.S. Constitution. Over…
History Spotlight: History of the 'Blue Route'
Newtown was a sleepy country crossroads for much of its history. Today, it is two miles from I-476. And if different choices had been made, the interstate highway would have crossed right through the eastern portion of the Township.
History Spotlight: Historic Newtown Square Day
When I first joined the Newtown Square Historical Society in the mid 1990’s, there was very little going on: a monthly public program but not much else.