As communities across the nation commemorate America’s 250th birthday, local history has taken on renewed importance. The stories of the people, homes and landmarks that shaped communities like Edgmont Township are an essential part of the larger American story. Thanks to the efforts of the Edgmont Township Historical Society, those stories are being preserved and shared with a growing audience of residents who are
eager to connect with the township’s rich past.
Although officially established in 2025, the society has quickly become an active and vibrant organization dedicated to uncovering, preserving and celebrating Edgmont’s heritage. Led by President Bob Steiner, Vice President Chip Miller, Secretary Meg Greene, Treasurer Randy Bates, Webmaster Christian Freyli and Events Coordinator Ann Guinan, the organization has spent the past year and a half bringing local history to life through educational programs, special events and new opportunities for community involvement.
“The wonderful thing is that for every interest and every skill, there is a unique place for members to lend their expertise and talent,” said Doug Humes, who serves as Curator, Communications Liaison and Program Director for the Newtown Square Historical Society and has helped support the fledgling organization. “Joining a community organization like the historical society is one of the ways to plug into your community, make new friends, and lend your skills and talents to the activities and events that make a community an enjoyable place to live and raise a family.”
The society’s mission is simple but important: to uncover, preserve and share the history of Edgmont with residents and visitors alike. That mission has resonated with residents, whose enthusiasm has translated into packed programs and growing support.
In November 2025, the society welcomed a large audience to its Legacy of Jane Carter program held at Ridley Creek State Park. The evening featured presentations by Doug Humes and Keith Lockhart, who explored the life and legacy of the noted local historian and author whose work helped preserve so much of Edgmont’s past. Guests also enjoyed tours of the mansion led by Jack Miller, and attendees had the opportunity to win historical keepsakes, including a signed copy of Jane Carter’s book on Edgmont and a beautifully framed 1913 map of the township. The event showcased the society’s ability to transform history into a memorable and engaging experience for the community.
The momentum continued this spring with one of the organization’s most successful programs to date. In April, the Edgmont Township Historical Society partnered with White Horse Village to host noted historian and geologist Dr. Walt Cressler for two presentations exploring the history of Edgmont’s waterways, farms, mills and villages. More than 200 attendees filled the venue to learn how geology and early settlement patterns shaped the township as it exists today.
The remarkable turnout demonstrated the strong interest residents have in understanding the places they call home. Through partnerships with organizations such as White Horse Village and Ridley Creek State Park, the society has reached audiences well beyond its membership and fostered a greater appreciation for Edgmont’s unique history.
Recognition for those efforts came in May when the Delaware County Heritage Commission honored the Edgmont Township Historical Society with its Annual Preservation Award for Group Achievement during the 48th Annual Preservation Awards ceremony. The award acknowledged the dedication of the society’s members, volunteers and community partners who have worked tirelessly to preserve and promote Edgmont’s history. For a young organization, the honor represented an impressive milestone and validation of the impact it has already made.
The society has also fulfilled one of Treasurer Randy Bates’ longtime hopes. A lifelong resident and owner of Arasapha Farm, Randy fondly remembered the historic home tours that were once a cherished tradition in Edgmont. “Growing up, I remember being able to visit some of the historical homes in Edgmont,” he recalled. Inspired by those memories, the society recently reintroduced the experience through a self-guided historic home tour, allowing residents to explore some of the township’s most significant properties and gain a deeper appreciation for the generations who lived there. The event marked the return of a beloved tradition while creating new opportunities for residents to experience
history firsthand.
For President Bob Steiner, whose own family has lived in one of Edgmont’s historic homes since 2000, the stories of the past reveal how much remains unchanged. “What struck me is that hundreds of years later, people aren’t much different,” he said. “We are still the same town where neighbors help neighbors.”
Vice President Chip Miller, whose family roots in Gradyville date back to the 1860s, believes the organization plays a vital role in bringing forgotten stories to light. “The historical society gives us the opportunity to uncover the written, oral and physical history and bring it to light,” he said.
Edgmont Township Supervisor Annie Thorne, who helped champion the effort, sees preserving history as another way to strengthen the bonds that unite the community. “One of the most rewarding parts of this effort has been seeing residents come together to share stories, photographs, memories and local knowledge,” she said. “Preserving Edgmont’s history is truly a community effort.”
As America celebrates 250 years of independence, the Edgmont Township Historical Society is ensuring that the township’s own story is not overlooked. Through lectures, partnerships, awards and community events, the organization has already made tremendous strides in preserving Edgmont’s past while inspiring a new generation of residents to appreciate the people and places that shaped their hometown.
The Edgmont Township Historical Society welcomes anyone with an interest in local history, genealogy, photography, research, events or community outreach. Whether you have decades of knowledge to share or simply a curiosity about the township’s past, there is a place for you. Residents interested in becoming involved are encouraged to visit EdgmontHistoricalSociety.org or connect with the society through its Facebook page to learn more.