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West Nantmeal Township Historical Commission historic property research files, circa 1980-1982

Extent:
1.75 linear feet
Abstract:
Around the time of the United States bicentennial, the Chester County Commissioners formed a partnership with the Chester County Historical Society, the Brandywine Conservancy and many volunteers to organize a Chester County Historic Sites Survey. This survey, conducted between 1979 and 1982, included all of Chester County except for the Boroughs of West Chester and Downingtown (which initiated separate survey projects around this time). The West Nantmeal Township Historical Commission historic property research files, circa 1980-1982, consist of folders with photocopies of Chester County's Architectural Inventory Form (AIF) for buildings more than fifty years old in West Nantmeal Township at the time of the survey. Some files have photographs.

Held at: West Nantmeal Township Historical Commission [Contact Us]

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William F. Wickersham family papers, circa 1813-1982 (bulk 1877-1925)

Extent:
2.0 linear feet
Abstract:
William F. Wickersham (1864-1927) served as the principal of Westtown School, a prominent Quaker boarding school in Chester County, Pennsylvania, from 1896 to 1913. Wickersham was a graduate of the school and also worked as a teacher there for many years. He also served as the school's bookkeeper and was president of the Alumni Association. The William F. Wickersham family papers, circa 1813-1982 (bulk, 1877-1925), primarily consist of correspondence, student exercise books and notebooks, essays and addresses, school administrative and financial records, ephemera, and other materials that document Wickersham's time at Westtown School as a student, teacher, and administrator. Also included in the collection are various materials relating to William F. Wickersham's son, Wilfred H. Wickersham, and other Wickersham and related family members during their time as students at Westtown School.

Held at: Westtown School Archives [Contact Us]

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Caroline Nicholson Jacob papers, 1920s-1982

Extent:
1.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Caroline Lucile Nicholson Jacob (1891-1991) was a teacher at Westtown School, a prominent Quaker boarding school in Chester County, Pa. She taught from 1916-1939 in the subjects of German, Bible, French, and History; from 1926-1939 she served as Assistant Principal. Jacob was a member of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), working in Europe after World War I with the American Friends Service Committee, active with the Philadelphia Yearly Meeting, and authoring several books about Quakerism and individual Quakers. The Caroline Nicholson Jacob papers, 1920s-1982, document Jacob's travels, interests, and religious and social activities. Topics include her trips to Africa, Europe, the Western U.S., and to the Fourth Friends World Conference; her engagement to be married and her birthdays (including her 90th); and her time at Westtown School. The collection includes correspondence, a published transcript of an oral history interview by American Friends Service Committee in 1989,...(see more)

Held at: Westtown School Archives [Contact Us]

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Mary Larkin Thomas family papers, 1807-1981 (inclusive)

Extent:
3.0 linear feet
Abstract:
A graduate of Westtown School (West Chester, Pa.), Mary Larkin Thomas (1886-1981) was a horticulturalist who was known, along with her mother and sister, in the area of Chester County, Pennsylvania as an "herb doctor." Thomas practiced herbal medicine; in particular, she used these skills to care for the infants of local Quaker families. She was also involved in numerous organizations, particularly Quaker associations. The Mary Larkin Thomas family papers, 1807-1981, include mostly correspondence, photographs, and other personal papers of Mary Larkin Thomas as well as papers of her immediate family members, in particular her sister Rachel C. Thomas and her mother Rebecca J. (Hallowell) Thomas. There are also some financial records of Mary's father, R. Henry Thomas.

Held at: Westtown School Archives [Contact Us]

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Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Brandywine Lodge No. 388 (Downingtown, Pa.) records, 1850-1980 (inclusive)

Extent:
1.5 linear feet
Abstract:
The Independent Order of Odd Fellows (I.O.O.F.) is an altruistic and benevolent fraternal organization not based in any particular ethnic, religious, or trade affiliation. Brandywine Lodge No. 388, I.O.O.F. in Downingtown, Chester County, Pennsylvania was incorporated in 1852, absorbed Pilgrim's Lodge (Lionville, Pa.) in 1974, and itself merged into Star of Hope Lodge 199 I.O.O.F. (previously of Coatesville, Pa.) in 2001. The Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Brandywine Lodge No. 388 (Downingtown, Pa.) records, 1850-1980, include minute books (1918-1926), officers books (1850-1962), building-related documents, and other materials.

Held at: Downingtown Area Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Historic Sugartown local manuscripts collection, 1790s-1980s

Extent:
2.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Sugartown, located in Malvern, Pennsylvania, was established in the early 1800s and became a vibrant crossroads that provided goods and services to the surrounding farming community. The Historic Sugartown local manuscripts collection, 1790s-1980s, consists of various materials such as letters, photographs, scrapbooks, and deeds that document some of Sugartown's early families and businesses. In particular, the Williams and Garrett families are well represented. Some items relating to the Hoopes family are also included.

Held at: Historic Sugartown, Inc. [Contact Us]

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Martha McAvoy King collection on Chester County (Pa.) human services, circa 1950-1980

Extent:
1.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Martha McAvoy King (1904-1997) of Phoenixville, Chester County, Pennsylvania was a life-long activist-volunteer and leader in local civic affairs. Specifically, she was involved in numerous social service programs relating to health and human services, education, and housing. The Martha McAvoy King collection on Chester County (Pa.) human services, circa 1950-1980, includes papers relating to her volunteer activities, primarily her involvement with Chester County's Children's Services Advisory Committee and the county's housing authority. Materials include reports, correspondence, minutes, financial papers, and membership lists.

Held at: Historical Society of the Phoenixville Area [Contact Us]

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Frances D. Matthews family papers, circa 1900-1980

Extent:
5.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Frances Dinkel Matthews (1907-1999) spent her entire life in Uwchlan Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Very active in the Uwchlan community, she served at various times as a school director and as a tax collector. She was a member of the Women's Community Club of Uwchlan, Uwchlan Conservation Trust, and Uwchlan Township Historical Commission. Most of the materials in Frances D. Matthews family papers, circa 1900-1980, relate either to local tax collecting (1952-1979) or schools (1903-1958). While the majority of materials appear to have been created or collected by Frances Matthews, some intermixed documents seem to stem from other sources. There are only a few Frances Matthews items in the collection not related either to taxes or schools, such as a Women's Community Club scrapbook from the 1930s.

Held at: Uwchlan Township Historical Commission [Contact Us]

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Downingtown Paper Company collection, 1880-1924 (bulk) 1839-1980 (inclusive)

Extent:
7.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Frank P. Miller (1859-1923) started his first paper mill near Downingtown, Chester County, Pennsylvania in 1881. His company was known as the Downingtown Paper Company, or "Dopaco," from 1924 until it became a subsidiary of Sonoco Products Company in 1968. After a fire in 2005, Sonoco permanently closed the mill, which by that time was producing paperboard. The Downingtown Paper Company collection, 1839-1980 (bulk 1880-1924), consists primarily of financial records from the Frank P. Miller Paper Company era; there are also some later records of Downingtown Paper Company (Dopaco), especially relating to longtime employee Thomas Brookover. A detailed inventory of the collection is available on-site.

Held at: Downingtown Area Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Joseph B. Smith and Sons Funeral Home records, 1872-1975 (inclusive)

Extent:
4.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Joseph B. Smith and Sons Funeral Home in West Chester, Pennsylvania was established in 1870, when Joseph B. Smith purchased the existing Hoffman Undertaking and Furniture Business. Smith’s firm, which was in business until 1994, was owned and operated by four successive generations of Smith men: Joseph B. Smith; his son, William B. Smith; his grandson, Ashton B.T. Smith; and his great-grandson, Ashton B.T. Smith, Jr. It ranked as one of the oldest funeral home businesses in Chester County. The Joseph B. Smith and Son Funeral Directors records houses the records produced by that funeral home from 1876 to 1946. In addition, there is a small cache of Smith family papers dating from 1883 to 1975. The bulk of the collection is made up of funeral home records. Included in the funeral home records are account books, funeral registries, bills, funeral home ephemera, and undertaker and coroner licenses. The Smith family papers section of the collection has very little to do with the...(see more)

Held at: Chester County Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Phoenixville lodges records, 1847-1974 (inclusive)

Extent:
5.75 linear feet
Abstract:
An altruistic and benevolent fraternal organization, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (I.O.O.F.) was originally organized in England in the 18th century. Established in the United States in 1819, it was the first national fraternity to include both men and women (beginning in 1851). Branches of the I.O.O.F. were started in Phoenixville, Chester County, Pennsylvania in 1847. The Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Phoenixville lodges records, 1847-1974, document the Phoenixville iterations of the I.O.O.F. over a 125-year period. The collection includes records of Phoenix Lodge No. 212, Phoenix Encampment No. 79, Adelaide Rebekah Lodge No. 42 (women's auxiliary), and the local Three Link Club (junior division). Minutes form the largest portion of the collection, but there are also membership records, financial records, ephemera, and other related materials.

Held at: Historical Society of the Phoenixville Area [Contact Us]

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Kennett (Pa. : Township). Board of Supervisors records, 1848-1974 (inclusive)

Extent:
1.5 linear feet
Abstract:
The first recorded mention of "Kennett Township" in Chester County, Pennsylvania is from 1705. An abolitionist stronghold, Kennett was popular with freedom-seekers escaping slavery prior to the Civil War due to the presence of progressive Quakers and a community of free blacks that was established as early as 1830. Later, the Kennett area became known for producing more than half of the mushrooms consumed in the United States. The Kennett (Pa. : Township). Board of Supervisors records, 1848-1974, consist of documents produced by the governing body and various administrative departments of Kennett Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania including minute books, correspondence, and tax and other financial records.

Held at: Kennett Township Historical Commission [Contact Us]

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Dorothy H. Gould English teaching materials, circa 1960-1974

Extent:
2.75 linear feet
Abstract:
Dorothy H. Gould (1909-2002) taught English and Physical Education at Westtown School in Pennsylvania from 1939 until her retirement in 1974. The Dorothy H. Gould English teaching materials, circa 1960-1974, consists of lecture notes, tests, lists of vocabulary and literary terms, articles about literary topics and teaching techniques, and other materials that supported Gould's work as an English teacher. There are also some papers relating to Gould's involvement with the school Library Committee, including meeting notes and lists of books borrowed by students.

Held at: Westtown School Archives [Contact Us]

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Junior Women's Club of Malvern scrapbooks, 1965-1974 (inclusive)

Extent:
1.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Junior Women's Club of Malvern was organized and federated in 1950. The Club supported various activities in the community including annual fashion shows, dinner dances, and educational programs. There was a gradual dissolution of the Club in 1982, as women's roles changed and time management of their home, work, and community commitments became an issue. The Junior Women's Club of Malvern scrapbooks, 1965-1974, consist of five scrapbooks compiled by the Junior Women's Club of Malvern documenting the Club's activities.

Held at: Malvern Historical Commission [Contact Us]

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Malvern Historical Commission collection on Malvern Public School, 1910s-1970s

Extent:
5.75 linear feet
Abstract:
From its building and dedication in 1899 to its closing in 1981, Malvern Public School, located on the southeast corner of 1st and Warren avenues in Malvern, Chester County, Pennsylvania, served the Borough of Malvern as a one room school house, a junior high, and an elementary school. The Malvern Historical Commission collection on Malvern Public School, 1910s-1970s, consists primarily of school records from Malvern Public School and includes materials such as excuse notes, guidance records with student permanent record cards, report cards, and individual scholarship records. Also in the collection is a small amount of printed and published materials relating to Chester County and Pennsylvania schools.

Held at: Malvern Historical Commission [Contact Us]

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Bard and McCord families papers, circa 1880s-1970s

Extent:
13.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Bard family of Reading, Berks County, Pennsylvania is descended from German immigrant Jacob Bard (1813-circa 1887). The Bards are perhaps best known for Jacob's five grandsons who were renowned acrobats in the circus and vaudeville circuit in the early 20th century. The McCord family is descended from Scottish immigrants who settled in Berks County and Chester County, Pennsylvania in the 18th century. Bard and McCord families papers, circa 1880s-1970s, consist primarily of materials from and relating to the McCord and Bard families. A small amount of materials are from other families associated with the McCords and Bards, including the Clingaman, Haas, Mast, and Fisher families. Materials include subject and genealogical files, journals, scrapbooks, several photographs and slides, lantern slides and glass plate negatives, film reels, printed matter and ephemera, and other materials.

Held at: Tri-County Heritage Society [Contact Us]

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Knights of the Golden Eagle, Washington Castle No. 45 (Phoenixville, Pa.) records, 1885-1969 (inclusive)

Extent:
2.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Founded in 1873, the Knights of the Golden Eagle is a fraternal organization with rituals based on those of the Crusaders with emphasis placed on the word of the Bible. In addition to giving moral and intellectual guidance, the society provides relief to sick or unemployed members and gives survivor benefits to widows and orphans. Washington Castle was the second Knights of the Golden Eagle branch formed in Phoenixville, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Founded in the late 19th century, it dissolved in 1970. The Knights of the Golden Eagle, Washington Castle No. 45 (Phoenixville, Pa.) records, 1885-1969, consist mostly of minutes and membership records with some financial and other records.

Held at: Historical Society of the Phoenixville Area [Contact Us]

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Central Evangelical Lutheran Church records, 1883-1968 (inclusive)

Extent:
2.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Central Evangelical Lutheran Church was organized in Phoenixville, Chester County, Pennsylvania in 1875 and closed in the late 20th century. The Central Evangelical Lutheran Church records, 1883-1968, consist mostly of Church Council minutes and treasurer's reports, with some Ladies Aid Society minutes, membership lists, and various other records of the church.

Held at: Historical Society of the Phoenixville Area [Contact Us]

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A.C. Bishop Funeral Home registers, 1862-1968 (inclusive)

Extent:
1.25 linear feet
Abstract:
The A.C. Bishop Funeral Home, located in Phoenixville, Chester County, Pennsylvania, was owned and operated by three generations of the Bishop family. George M. Bishop (1836-1914) ran the business from 1862 until his death in 1914, when his son, Alonzo C. Bishop (1858-1949), took over. A.C. Bishop's sons, Francis A. and Cooper T. Bishop, succeeded their father as proprietors. The business was very successful, operating for over 100 years. The A.C Bishop Funeral Home registers, 1862-1968, consist of over 30 funeral home registers and coffin records, 1862-1911 and 1931-1968, that provide names of decedents and often biographical information.

Held at: Historical Society of the Phoenixville Area [Contact Us]

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F.B. Neiman & Son Funeral Home registers, 1905-1966 (inclusive)

Extent:
3.2 linear feet
Abstract:
Frederick Bickel Neiman, Sr. (1879-1954) was an undertaker who owned and operated F.B. Neiman Funeral Home in Phoenixville, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Frederick B. Neiman, Jr. (1905-1978), continued in his father's profession, and the business became F.B. Neiman & Son Funeral Home. F.B. Neiman & Son Funeral Home registers consist of the home's registers from its founding in 1905 until 1966, as well as some financial records. Most registers provide a significant amount of biographical information for each decedent.

Held at: Historical Society of the Phoenixville Area [Contact Us]

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Christian C. Sanderson collection, 1900-1966 (bulk) 1842-1966 (inclusive)

Extent:
100.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Christian Carmack Sanderson (1882-1966) was an historian, collector, teacher, musician, lecturer, and radio broadcaster, who spent most of his life in the area of Chadds Ford, Delaware County, Pennsylvania. The Christian C. Sanderson collection, 1842-1966 (bulk 1900-1966), consists of Christian C. Sanderson's personal papers and the papers of his family members, as well as materials collected by him. It includes diaries, ephemera, notes, postcards, scrapbooks, slides and scripts from lectures given by Sanderson, artworks created by members of the Wyeth family, photographs, financial records, and more.

Held at: Christian C. Sanderson Museum [Contact Us]

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Harman D. Rees family papers, 1890-1964 (bulk) 1710-1964 (inclusive)

Extent:
8.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Harman D. Rees was (1873-1964) was a farmer and active public servant in Charlestown Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania. He wrote a detailed history of the township, Historical Sketches of Charlestown Township, completed around 1943. The Harman D. Rees family papers, 1710-1964 (bulk 1890-1964), include scrapbooks, newspaper issues and clippings, research notes, correspondence, family papers, hand drawn maps and blueprints, photographs, and other documents relating to Rees's research interests--Charlestown Township history, birds, plants, and Rees family genealogy--as well as farming practices, family life, municipal affairs, and additional topics.

Held at: Charlestown Historical Society [Contact Us]

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McElroy family collection on Tri-County (Pa.) history, 19th century-1960s

Extent:
5.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Walter (1903-1993) and Esther (Kline) (1903-1992) McElroy were school teachers and longtime residents of the Tri-County Pennsylvania area, where northwestern Chester, southeastern Berks, and northeastern Lancaster counties converge. The McElroys were interested in the local history and families of the this area and they collected materials throughout their lifetimes pertaining to the Tri-County area and its prominent individuals and families, including the Ames and Plank families. McElroy family collection on Tri-County (Pa.) history, circa 19th century-1960s, consists of materials related to the history, people, businesses (and other topics) of Berks, Chester, and Lancaster counties in Pennsylvania. The materials include subject files, newspaper clippings, printed matter, original artworks, photographs, and other materials.

Held at: Tri-County Heritage Society [Contact Us]

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Phoenixville schools attendance registers, 1858-1900 and 1925-1957

Extent:
3.33 linear feet
Abstract:
Phoenixville, which was incorporated as a borough in 1849 in Chester County, Pennsylvania, evolved from an early 18th century village. The history of the town largely mirrored the history of the Phoenix Iron Company, which became hugely successful in the mid-19th century with the advent of the railroad. The Phoenixville Area School District is located in northern Chester County, several miles west of Valley Forge Park. The district covers three municipalities: Phoenixville Borough, Schuylkill Township, and East Pikeland Township. The Phoenixville schools attendance registers, 1858-1900 and 1925-1957, primarily are from elementary schools in the Phoenixville School District. Also included are some superintendent yearly reports and statistical information.

Held at: Historical Society of the Phoenixville Area [Contact Us]

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Reinhardt, Hawley and Hewes family papers, 1762-1955 (inclusive)

Extent:
1.5 linear ft. (9 boxes)
Abstract:
The Reinhardt, Hawley, Hewes and Meredith families are tied together through marriage and their Quaker faith across multiple generations. William Dell Reinhardt, a University of Pennsylvania graduate and doctor, married Rebecca Hawley, a teacher. They had six children: Jesse Hawley Reinhardt, Mary Bailey Reinhardt, Esther Meredith Reinhardt, Lydia Ludwig Reinhardt, Elizabeth Christina Reinhardt, and David Jones Reinhardt. David Jones Reinhardt married Anna Margaret Hewes in 1896. These individuals created the bulk of the material contained within this collection. This collection consists of correspondence; account books; certificates; diaries and household information lists; friendship books; land and insurance records; marriage certificates; miscellaneous family records; wills and estates; genealogical research; photographs; Quaker tracts and poetry; newspaper clippings; and Acts of the Assembly of the Province of Pennsylvania. Before looking into the collection, a researcher...(see more)

Held at: Haverford College Quaker & Special Collections [Contact Us]

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W.S. Sample, Jr. film reels and scrapbooks of Phoenixville High School music, 1934-1955 (inclusive)

Extent:
2.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Walter Scott Sample, Jr. was a well-known band director in Phoenixville (Chester County, Pennsylvania), known as "the John Philip Sousa of the area." After becoming music director for Phoenixville High School in 1934, Sample started a marching band that gained attention for innovative routines and high quality of performance. The W.S. Sample, Jr. film reels and scrapbooks of Phoenixville High School music, 1934-1955, document Sample's work with the Phoenixville High School music department. It includes about one dozen 16mm color and black and white film reels of performances and seven scrapbooks of photographs, programs and ephemera, clippings, and related materials.

Held at: Historical Society of the Phoenixville Area [Contact Us]

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Henry Howson family papers, 1849-1952 (inclusive)

Extent:
2.5 cubic feet
Abstract:
Henry Howson, Sr. (1823-1885), trained as an engineer in his native England before establishing a patent law firm in Philadelphia in 1853. Henry Howson, Jr. (1859-1937) joined the family practice in 1875. He maintained residences in Philadelphia, but also enjoyed the family's country home, "Brae Head Farm," in Glenmoore (Wallace Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania). The Henry Howson family papers, 1849-1952, mostly pertain to Henry Howson, Jr., with some documents from his father, and a sizeable quantity of papers from his daughter, Margaret, relative to Henry Howson, Jr.'s estate. Most materials relate to properties owned by the family in Philadelphia and in Chester County, Pennsylvania (Brae Head Farm) or the Howson patent law firm; there are a few items about Henry Howson, Sr.'s engineering work, Henry Howson, Jr.'s involvement with the Fairview Presbyterian Church's annual flower, fruit, and vegetable exhibition, and other topics.

Held at: Wallace Township Archives [Contact Us]

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Hannum family papers, circa 1850-1950

Extent:
2.5 linear feet
Abstract:
The Hannum family were members of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) based in and around Kennett Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Charles Beverly Hannum (born 1861) was employed at times as a railroad agent and owner of a general store. One of his sons, Edward Darlington Hannum (1892-1977), worked variously as a postmaster, greenhouse manager, florist, and mushroom grower. The Hannum family papers, circa 1850-1950, consist of various materials from the Hannum, Cloud, and Darlington families, including photographs, scrapbooks, financial records, and other documents. Best represented are Charles B. Hannum and Edward D. Hannum.

Held at: Kennett Township Historical Commission [Contact Us]

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Brower family papers, circa 1750-1950s

Extent:
12.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Mennonites Hubert and Anna Brower left Germany and emigrated to Chester County, Pennsylvania in 1726. They settled in Coventry (now, East Coventry Township). Hubert and Anna's son, Henry Brower (1720-1784) purchased land and established a family farm in the Parker Ford area of Coventry. His descendents, many of who were farmers, doctors, and ministers, resided in this area of Chester County for several generations. The Brower family papers, circa 1750-1950s, consist of financial, legal, and property documents; letters; family records and genealogy research; school records and teacher certificates; photographs and scrapbooks; newspaper clippings, printed matter, and ephemera; and other materials. There are small amounts of materials from other families that are connected to the Brower family. Individuals well-represented in the collection include M. Bertha Brower (1900-2000), Dr. William Brower (1842-1919), Abraham Brower, and David Stiteler Taylor (1832-1925) and his second wife,...(see more)

Held at: Tri-County Heritage Society [Contact Us]

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Seal family papers, 1752-1943 (inclusive)

Extent:
3.0 linear feet
Abstract:
William Heyburn Seal (1822-1910) settled in Birmingham Township (now Chadds Ford), Delaware County, Pennsylvania before 1850. He and his wife Deborah Twaddell, had six children. The Seal family papers, 1752-1943, include ledgers, teacher's lists, deeds, school workbooks, marriage certificates, a scrapbook, correspondence, a tax record, and many other materials from the Seal, Twaddell, and related families. Mary Emma Seal (1865-1941) and William Heyburn Seal (1822-1910) are especially well documented.

Held at: Chadds Ford Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Israel R. Berry family papers, 1890-1940 (bulk) 1864-1940 (inclusive)

Extent:
2.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Israel R. Berry (born 1862) was an influential citizen of West Caln Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, known for his successful farm and involvement with the township school board. His father, Milton Berry (born in West Caln in 1825), was a carpenter who acquired a 47-acre farm, and was active in township government. The Israel R. Berry family papers, 1864-1940 (bulk 1890-1940), include a large amount of records of the West Caln Township School Board as well as assorted personal papers and family papers (principally from Israel Berry and his father, Milton Berry).

Held at: West Caln Township Historical Commission [Contact Us]

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Worrall and John family papers and business records, 1830-1939 (inclusive)

Extent:
4.0 linear feet
Abstract:
During the 1840s, Sharpless Worrall moved with his family to Sugartown in Willistown Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, where he took over ownership of a general store and served as postmaster for 20 years. Upon his retirement, Worrall's son-in-law Hillery John took over the store, which he ran until his death. At that point it was taken over by Hillery's son, Clyde B. John, who eventually turned the business into an antiques shop. Worrall and John family papers and business records, 1830-1939, primarily consist of the business records of the general store under all three owners as well personal and family papers relating to the Worrall and John families.

Held at: Historic Sugartown, Inc. [Contact Us]

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Kimes and Nelson's Funeral Service funeral registers, 1884-1936 (inclusive)

Extent:
1.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Servicing Spring City and Royersford, Pennsylvania, Kimes and Nelson's Funeral Service was in operation for close to a century, beginning in 1884. The Kimes and Nelson's funeral registers, 1884-1936, consist of 11 volumes that cover a 50-year period. Entries include a significant amount of information about decedents, including occupation, birth place, parents' names, and cause of death.

Held at: Spring-Ford Area Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Helen Wright Prince family papers regarding Westtown School, 1904-1929 (inclusive)

Extent:
1.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Helen Wright Prince (1911-2013) entered Westtown School in 1922 and graduated in 1929. Her father, William and brother, Herbert were also Westtown graduates. While at Westtown, Helen was very involved with student activities, playing on several varsity sports teams, active in art and music clubs, and serving on student council and various committees. The Helen Wright Prince family papers regarding Westtown School, 1904-1929, consist primarily of letters from Helen to her mother while a student. The collection also features a scrapbook, autograph album, reports, various ephemera, and some school notebooks created by Helen while she was a student, as well as some materials from Helen's brother Herbert and father William while they attended Westtown.

Held at: Westtown School Archives [Contact Us]

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Howell family papers, 1830-1880 (bulk) 1798-1929 (inclusive)

Extent:
1.5 linear feet
Abstract:
The Howell family were members of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) who resided in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. The Howell family papers, 1798-1929 (bulk 1830-1880), consist substantially of routine personal correspondence between several generations of the Howell family, particularly Sally R. Howell, Israel Howell, Mary Mott Howell, Joshua R. Howell, and Elizabeth Howell. The collection also includes a sizeable amount of school records, about 17 manuscript volumes from the early to mid-1800s, and drafts of poems and other writings.

Held at: Delaware County Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Esther Leggett travel scrapbooks, 1901-1927 (inclusive)

Extent:
4.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Esther Griffin Leggett was born around 1855 and lived most of her life in Phoenixville, Chester County, Pennsylvania. An active volunteer at the local public library, she was known as the "story hour lady" for decades. Leggett traveled extensively and internationally in the early 20th century before passing away in 1935. The Esther Leggett travel scrapbooks, 1901-1927, include diary entries by Leggett as well as photo postcards, photographs, maps, ephemera, and some botanical specimens. There are 31 volumes documenting Leggett's domestic and international travels; of special interest is a volume about the US's entry into World War I.

Held at: Historical Society of the Phoenixville Area [Contact Us]

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Horace D. Heistand glass plate negatives, 1920-1924 (inclusive)

Extent:
1.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Horace Dayton Heistand (1880-1933) was a photographer based out of Spring City, Chester County, Pennsylvania in the early 20th century. The Horace D. Heistand glass plate negatives, 1920-1924, consist of 128 glass plate negatives of Spring City and nearby Royersford, with a few shots of Phoenixville.

Held at: Spring-Ford Area Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Roberts Family Correspondence, 1815-1922, undated (inclusive)

Extent:
0.832 linear ft. (2 boxes)
Abstract:
This collections contains materials belonging to the Roberts Family from 1815-1922. The bulk of this collections consists of correspondence with Elizabeth T. Roberts.

Held at: Haverford College Quaker & Special Collections [Contact Us]

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Wilbur Hall photographs, circa 1890-1920

Extent:
5.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Wilbur P. Hall (1879-1969) was a railroad engineer who lived in Llanerch, Delaware County, Pennsylvania and worked for the Philadelphia and West Chester Traction Company. The Wilbur Hall photographs, circa 1890-1920, consist of over 200 glass plate negatives and photographic prints. Most of the images are related to commuter rail systems; there are also images of people, buildings, and scenery, principally from locations in Llanerch and Haverford Township, Delaware County, Pennsylvania.

Held at: Haverford Township Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Colonel Richard Thomas papers, 1741-1919 (inclusive)

Extent:
1.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Richard Thomas (1744-1832) was a Revolutionary War colonel and a politician. He served in the Revolutionary War in the 5th Battalion Association despite his Quaker faith and served as an Assembly man from 1796 to 1790, as Pennsylvania Senator from 1790 to 1794, and as Congressman from 1794 to 1798. The collection dates from 1741 to 1919 with the bulk of materials dating from 1741 to 1857. The materials in the collection document the history of Chester County and the United States as well as the personal side of the Thomas family.

Held at: Chester County Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Joshua P. Lamborn glass plate negatives, circa 1914

Extent:
3.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Joshua P. Lamborn (circa 1860 - circa 1930) was a resident of Chester County, Pennsylvania who was active as a photographer in the early 20th century. The Joshua P. Lamborn glass plate negatives, circa 1914, consist of about 180 4" x 5"-plates plus about six 5" x 7"-plates and a small photographic record book. Some of the images are identified.

Held at: Tredyffrin Easttown Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Joseph W. Sharp family diaries, 1818-1838, 1859-1910

Extent:
3.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Sharp family was one of the more prominent in Berwyn (Chester County, Pennsylvania) during the period of its greatest growth. Joseph W. Sharp (1828-1908) purchased a farm of several hundred acres in Easttown Township, became active in local public affairs--he was a founder of Berwyn National Bank--and is considered the first regular commuter from Berwyn to Philadelphia on the Pennsylvania Railroad. The Joseph W. Sharp family diaries, 1818-1838 and 1859-1910, consists of several dozen volumes. Most are his diaries from 1859 to 1910; the collection also includes some farm financial information, loose correspondence, an account ledger, a farm ledger (1818-1838), and scattered other materials.

Held at: Tredyffrin Easttown Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Dr. Benjamin S. and Dr. Isaac Anderson account books, 1821-1905 (inclusive)

Extent:
3.25 linear feet
Abstract:
Dr. Isaac Anderson (1796-1865) and his son Dr. Benjamin Smith Anderson (1821-1894) were both eminent physicians who practiced in the area of Delaware County, Pennsylvania. The Dr. Benjamin S. and Dr. Isaac Anderson account books, 1821-1905, consist of 32 volumes, mostly ledgers of medical practice from Dr. Isaac Anderson and his son Dr. Benjamin S. Anderson. There are also several ledgers of farm, business, real estate, and other transactions, and some volumes from other family members.

Held at: Chadds Ford Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Buffington–Marshall papers, 1707-1876 (inclusive)

Extent:
3.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The manuscripts in the collection cover the years 1707 to 1876. The bulk of the collection is connected to two families, Buffington and Marshall. Buffington family manuscripts begin with emigrant Richard Buffington (d. 1747/8). He was married three times and his children included Ann, Ruth, Richard (d. 1741, married Phebe Grubb), Thomas, William, John, Hannah, Mary, Elizabeth, Lydia, Abigail, Joseph, and Alice. The Marshall family manuscripts originated from the family of emigrant Abraham Marshall (1669-1767) and his wife, Mary Hunt Marshall (d. 1769). Topics include: farming, botany, legal system, politics and elections, the poor, education, medicine, crime (includes murder, fornication and bastardy cases, etc.), slavery, etc.

Held at: Chester County Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Abraham R. McIlvaine correspondence, 1836-1857 (inclusive)

Extent:
0.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Abraham Robinson McIlvaine (1804-1863) was a farmer and United States Congressman from Pennsylvania. In office from 1843-1849, he befriended future president Abraham Lincoln during Lincoln's only term in Congress. The Abraham R. McIlvaine correspondence, 1836-1857, consists entirely of incoming and outgoing letters between Abraham McIlvaine and various family members. There are 556 letters, spanning the time period during Abraham McIlvaine's career as a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, a U.S. Congressman and chairman of the Committee on Expenditures in the Department of War, and his post-political life. At least some of McIlvaine's letters from 1843-1849 discuss his activities in Congress.

Held at: Wallace Township Archives [Contact Us]

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Pennock Commonplace Books, 1818-1839 (inclusive)

Extent:
0.1 linear ft. (1 folder)
Abstract:
This collection contains a variety of poems copied by William Pennock in the years 1818 and 1821. It also contains poems copied by Mary Pennock in 1839.

Held at: Haverford College Quaker & Special Collections [Contact Us]

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Thomas and Sarah Newlin Marriage Certificate, 1782-04-18

Extent:
0.02 linear ft. (1 item)
Abstract:
This collection contains the marriage certificate of Sarah (Grubb) Newlin (1764-1830) and blacksmith Thomas Newlin (1747-1811), recorded by Caleb Peirce at the 1782 Concord Meeting in Chester, Pennsylvania.

Held at: Haverford College Quaker & Special Collections [Contact Us]

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