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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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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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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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Joseph W. Thomas and Sons nursery records, 1884-1990 (inclusive)

Extent:
5.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Joseph W. Thomas and Sons Nursery in Chester County was one of the oldest and longest running horticultural enterprises in the state of Pennsylvania. It operated from 1853 to 1990, and was owned by three successive generations of the Thomas family. The Thomas nursery actually began in 1828 as a small farm and orchard called “Maple Farm,” which was owned by Charles and Ruth Thomas. It was their son, Joseph Williams Thomas, who formally established the nursery on a small portion of the farm around 1853. He named his burgeoning business, Chester Valley Nursery. Later, he changed the company’s name to Joseph W. Thomas and Company. Around 1888, Joseph’s sons, Edwin and Charles Lincoln, joined him in business and the name of the firm was changed once more to Joseph W. Thomas and Sons, reflecting the new partnership. The Joseph W. Thomas and Sons Nursery records contains documents created by that business from 1884 to 1993. Researchers will find financial records; general business...(see more)

Held at: Chester County Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Charlestown Historical Society subject files, circa 1900-2014 (bulk 1976-2014)

Extent:
16.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Charlestown Township in Chester County, Pennsylvania is named for Charles Pickering, who was granted the land from William Penn that today makes up a large portion of the Township. Charlestown was the site of the Valley Forge General Hospital during World War II. The Charlestown Historical Society subject files, circa 1900-2014 (bulk 1976-2014), contain materials that relate to Charlestown Township's history and residents; local historic districts, buildings, and organizations; other Chester County historic sites and organizations; and other topics of local interest. Although there are a small number of scattered primary source documents in the collection, materials are largely secondary-source, such as newspaper clippings, research notes, scholarly articles, photocopies of primary documents, and printed materials and ephemera. The collection is organized into three series: I. Subject files; II. Family files; and III. Scrapbooks.

Held at: Charlestown Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Charlestown Historical Society manuscripts collection, circa 1790-1990

Extent:
10.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Charlestown Township in Chester County, Pennsylvania is named for Charles Pickering, who was granted the land from William Penn that today makes up a large portion of the Township. Charlestown was the site of the Valley Forge General Hospital during World War II. The Charlestown Historical Society manuscripts collection, circa 1790-1990, includes photographs, slides, deeds, maps and atlases, family papers, business records, school and municipal records, scrapbooks and various other materials collected from local people and organizations from Charlestown Township and nearby areas.

Held at: Charlestown Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Woman's Club of Downingtown records, 1914-2007 (inclusive)

Extent:
15.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Woman's Club of Downingtown (Chester County, Pennsylvania) was organized in 1914 and is still active as of 2014. Its mission is "to develop the educational, civic, and special interests of its members and to advance the welfare of the community." It was federated in the General Federation of Women's Clubs for most of its history, but disaffiliated in 2001. The Woman's Club of Downingtown records, 1914-2007, consist of various administrative, financial, and other records from the club's founding in 1914 through the beginning of the 21st century. A detailed inventory of the collection is available on-site.

Held at: Downingtown Area Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Downingtown Area Historical Society photograph collection, circa 1870-1991

Extent:
7.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Borough of Downingtown, Chester County, Pennsylvania is located halfway between Philadelphia and Lancaster. Known as Milltown in the 18th century since it was the location of the last mills on the edge of the unsettled western frontier, the village became known as Downingtown after the War of 1812; the borough was incorporated in 1859. Improved transportation, by stagecoach, railroad, and eventually highways, drew increasing population and investment to Downingtown over the 19th and 20th centuries. The Downingtown Area Historical Society photograph collection, circa 1870-1991, consists of photographs and postcards depicting the people, businesses, churches, organizations, and schools of the Downingtown area.

Held at: Downingtown Area Historical Society [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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Downingtown Area Historical Society ephemera collection, 1978-2014 (bulk) 1909-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
3.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Borough of Downingtown, Chester County, Pennsylvania is located halfway between Philadelphia and Lancaster. Known as Milltown in the 18th century since it was the location of the last mills on the edge of the unsettled western frontier, the village became known as Downingtown after the War of 1812; the borough was incorporated in 1859. Improved transportation, by stagecoach, railroad, and eventually highways, drew increasing population and investment to Downingtown over the 19th and 20th centuries. The Downingtown Area Historical Society ephemera collection, 1909-2014 (bulk 1978-2014), documents the people, businesses, churches, organizations, and schools of the Downingtown area. Newsletters, pamphlets, maps, programs, copies and print-outs of research articles, and other types of ephemera are included.

Held at: Downingtown Area Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Will-Britt Books genealogy research files and books, 1965-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
44.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Mildred C. Williams and Janet R. Brittingham were genealogists who together self-published genealogy histories and genealogy-source transcripts, primarily focusing on Southeastern Pennsylvania, under the name Will-Britt Books. The Will-Britt Books genealogy research files and books, 1965-2012, consist of the working files, publications, and reference materials from the offices of Will-Britt Books. It is organized into three series: I. Genealogy research files; II. Will-Britt Books publications; and III. Reference materials and administrative records.

Held at: Doylestown Historical Society [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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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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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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Historical Society of the Phoenixville Area subject files, circa 1850-2013

Extent:
53.0 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 Historical Society of the Phoenixville Area subject files, circa 1850-2013, consist primarily of photocopied primary-source documents, newspaper clippings, and research articles that relate to numerous aspects of Phoenixville's history. It also contains a fair amount of original documents, principally pamphlets, small printed works, and ephemera, as well as some photographs, deeds, and manuscript pages. The collection is organized into series and subseries by subject; the largest series are Genealogy and Phoenix Iron Company / Phoenix Steel Company.

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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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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Forge Theatre records, 1962-2003 (inclusive)

Extent:
5.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Forge Theatre is a nonprofit community theater group based in Phoenixville, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Formed 1962, the group is still active as of 2013. The Forge Theatre records, 1962-2003, include scrapbooks, newsletters, meeting minutes, programs, framed certificates, and banners from the group.

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

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Phoenixville Chapter No. 713 of the American Association of Retired Persons scrapbooks and photograph albums, 1969-1986 (inclusive)

Extent:
1.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Chapter No. 713 of the American Association of Retired Persons in Phoenixville, Chester County, Pennsylvania was founded in 1969 and is still active as of 2013. Nationally, the AARP promotes the well-being of older persons through advocacy, education, and service. The Phoenixville Chapter No. 713 of the American Association of Retired Persons scrapbooks and photograph albums, 1969-1986, consist of ten volumes. The scrapbooks include newsletters, clippings about the AARP, ephemera, and some administrative records such as membership lists, correspondence, and meeting minutes.

Held at: Historical Society of the Phoenixville Area [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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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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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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Kennett Township Historical Commission property research files, 1994-2011 (inclusive)

Extent:
7.0 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 Township Historical Commission property research files, 1994-2011, consist of two surveys of historic sites in Kennett Township completed in 1994-1996 and 2009-2011, covering approximately 350 properties.

Held at: Kennett Township Historical Commission [Contact Us]

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Kennett Township Historical Commission subject files, 1980-2014 (bulk) 1847-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
10.0 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 Township Historical Commission subject files, 1847-2014 (bulk 1980-2014), focus on people, places, organizations, buildings, and events of Kennett Township. The files consist mainly of secondary-source materials, such as clippings, pamphlets/ephemera, and family genealogies, as well as a small amount of primary-source materials.

Held at: Kennett Township Historical Commission [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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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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Kennett Township Historical Commission oral histories, 1987-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
2.0 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 Township Historical Commission oral histories, 1987-2013, consist of cassette tape recordings of the recollections of about thirty members of the Kennett Township community.

Held at: Kennett Township Historical Commission [Contact Us]

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Eleanor Morris papers on the Mill at Anselma, 1971-1999 (inclusive)

Extent:
5.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Eleanor May Morris (1919-2011) was an advocate for conservation of open space and farm land and preservation of historic buildings in Chester County, Pennsylvania. In 1967, she co-founded with her husband the French and Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust (FPCCT) and served as its president for thirty years. She was also a founding member of the Mill at Anselma Preservation and Educational Trust (MAAPET). The Eleanor Morris papers on the Mill at Anselma, 1971-1999, consist of records from FPCCT and MAAPET from Eleanor Morris' home office. The files relate to the Anselma Mill, including FPCCT's acquisition of its property and buildings in the early 1980s, the establishment of Mill at Anselma as an historic site, and the formation of MAAPET in 1998.

Held at: Mill at Anselma Preservation and Educational Trust [Contact Us]

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Malin family papers, 1684-1880 (bulk) 1684-1992 (inclusive)

Extent:
0.5 linear feet
Abstract:
The Borough of Media, the county seat of Delaware County, Pennsylvania, was settled by Europeans beginning in the 1680s. The area remained largely rural until the end of the 19th century. The Malin family was one of the first English Quaker families to settle in Pennsylvania when Randal Malin (1652-1729), a Quaker minister, emigrated from Cheshire, England upon purchasing 250 acres of land from William Penn in 1681. The Malin family papers, 1684-1992 (bulk, 1684-1880), include mostly estate records such as deeds, indentures, wills, bond and mortgages, and estate inventories with some financial papers such as a receipt book, miscellaneous receipts, and shilling notes. There is also a photocopy of a manuscript genealogy of Malin and Edwards families by Phyillis Centman.

Held at: Media Historic Archives Commission [Contact Us]

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Malvern Historical Commission records, circa 1980s-2013

Extent:
2.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Malvern Historical Commission in Malvern, Chester County, Pennsylvania was established by an ordinance of the Malvern Borough Council in 1983 to identify the various historic or otherwise significant structures, locations, and sites in Malvern and preserve them. The Malvern Historical Commission records, 1980s-2013, consist of administrative records from the Malvern Historical Commission and reference materials used by the organization during the course of its work.

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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Nancy B. Schmitt scrapbooks and research on Malvern (Pa.) history, 1975-2010s

Extent:
8.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Nancy Blackstone Schmitt (1940-2013) was a Malvern resident, author, and community activist. She was the researcher and author of Malvern Treasures, the editor of A Century in Malvern, 1989, and the author of Malvern Items, 1870-2006. The Nancy B. Schmitt scrapbooks and research on Malvern (Pa.) history, 1975-2010s, consist of Nancy B. Schmitt's research for various books she wrote and edited on Malvern (Pa.), as well as several scrapbooks she compiled with clippings of newspaper articles she wrote for the Suburban Advertiser.

Held at: Malvern Historical Commission [Contact Us]

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Malvern Retreat House records, circa 1910s-2016

Extent:
200.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Located in Malvern, Chester County, Pennsylvania, Malvern Retreat House (MRH) is the nation's oldest and largest Catholic retreat house, serving over 20,000 people annually. Owned and operated by Catholic laity since 1912, MRH serves the spiritual needs of lay men and women of all ages, as well as clergy and religious of many denominations, through the retreat experience. Malvern Retreat House records, circa 1910-2016, consist of subject files, files relating to the various groups that hold or have held regular retreats at Malvern Retreat House, board and committee minutes and administrative files, scrapbooks and binders, oral histories, newsletters and other publications, photographs and photograph albums, and framed and oversized materials.

Held at: William M. Lennox Archives Center at Malvern Retreat House [Contact Us]

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G.O. Carlson, Inc. production records, 1953-1998 (inclusive)

Extent:
450.0 linear feet
Abstract:
G.O. Carlson, Inc. is a producer of stainless and specialty steel. Founded by Gunard O. Carlson in Thorndale, Pennsylvania, its origins can be traced to 1936 although it was formally incorporated in 1940. Materials produced by the company were used in the first nuclear submarine, the first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, and a space shuttle. The G. O. Carlson, Inc. production records, 1953-1998, include production orders, several record types relating to quality control and testing, various other production-related records. The collection also includes several binders of print outs of digital photographs of the G.O. Carlson lab, issues of Corrosion magazine, and a few other items not directly related to production.

Held at: National Iron & Steel Heritage Museum [Contact Us]

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Graystone Society collection on Coatesville history, 1880-2011 (inclusive)

Extent:
11.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Coatesville in Chester County, Pennsylvania is home to the longest operating steel mill in America, Lukens Steel Company. Development in the area was spurred by convenient transport routes offered by America's first turnpike, the Philadelphia to Lancaster Turnpike (now U.S. Route 30), and the Philadelphia and Columbia Railroad, built in 1834. The Graystone Society, Inc. is today a not-for-profit educational institution dedicating to collecting, preserving, exhibiting, and interpreting iron and steel's history and its relationship to Coatesville, the region, and the nation. The Graystone Society collection on Coatesville history, 1880-2011, includes photographs, scrapbooks, minute books, clippings, school books, and various other family papers and organizational records relating to the people and organizations of Coatesville and the surrounding area. Of special interest are several 18th and early 19th century manuscript volumes relating to the Pennock and Lukens family. Some records...(see more)

Held at: National Iron & Steel Heritage Museum [Contact Us]

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New London Area Historical Society local history collection, 1970-2000 (bulk) 1711-2000 (inclusive)

Extent:
12.0 linear feet
Abstract:
New London Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania was chartered in 1723 and originally included the areas that now comprise adjacent Franklin Township and nearby London Britain Township. The New London Academy opened in 1743 and was responsible for educating a number of prominent colonial, revolutionary, and early American-era politicians, historians, clergy, and educators, including three signers of the Declaration of Independence. The New London Area Historical Society local history collection, 1711-2000 (bulk 1970-2000), consists of a mix of primary and secondary-source material relating to the history and residents of New London Township and nearby areas. Materials include manuscripts, property files, photographs, slides, newspaper clippings, subject files, and a small amount of records from various New London historical organizations.

Held at: New London Area Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Charles C. Walker Papers, 1940-2000 (inclusive)

Extent:
25.67 linear ft. (21 record cartons and 1 flat box)
Abstract:
Minutes, reports, writings, notes, photographs, and printed material from Walker's work as an activist and nonviolent resistance trainer. Materials have been place in series based on how the subjects were identified in their original boxes.

Held at: Swarthmore College Peace Collection [Contact Us]

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Spring-Ford Area Historical Society subject files, circa 1880s-2012

Extent:
45.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Previously a sparsely-settled farming area, early development in Spring City (Chester County, Pennsylvania) and adjacent Royersford (Montgomery County, Pennsylvania) coincided with the opening of the Schuylkill Navigation Canal in 1824. Industry in the two towns continued to grow during the 19th century, especially with the construction of major rail lines through both. By the early 20th century, Spring City and Royersford were booming industrial towns with extensive stove factories, glass and bottle works, and embroidery, hosiery, and knitting mills, among other businesses. The Spring-Ford Area Historical Society subject files, circa 1880s-2012, document various topics of local interest. The collection mostly contains photocopies, with some original materials, such as newspaper clippings, photographs, research notes, narrative histories, cemetery records and indexes, obituaries, and family histories. Major categories include: burial records, church histories and sacramental...(see more)

Held at: Spring-Ford Area Historical Society [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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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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Tredyffrin Easttown Historical Society manuscripts collection, 1732-2010 (inclusive)

Extent:
11.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Both Tredyffrin and Easttown townships in the Upper Main Line area and eastern Chester County, Pennsylvania were settled by Welsh Quakers in 1682; they were incorporated in 1707 and 1704, respectively. Predominantly farming communities for most of their histories, commercial and residential development in both townships accelerated with the construction of the "Main Line" Pennsylvania Railroad Line in the 1830s and burgeoned after World War II. The Tredyffrin Easttown Historical Society manuscripts collection, 1732-2010, includes various small accumulations of materials from local individuals, businesses, and organizations in the area of Tredyffrin and Easttown townships. Minute books, financial records, genealogy and local history research materials, school records, correspondence, and other family papers and organizational records are represented.

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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Tri-County Heritage Society local history collection, 1735-1990s

Extent:
75.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The region of southeastern Pennsylvania where southern Berks, northern Chester, and eastern Lancaster counties meet is known locally as the "Tri-County" area. The Tri-County area was first settled by Welsh immigrants, and later by German, Irish, and Scottish immigrants. While the area was largely agricultural, it also developed into an important early industrial corridor. In the early twenty-first century, the Tri-County area is a mix of farmland, industry, and suburban real estate development. Tri-County Heritage Society local history collection, 1735-1990s, consists of manuscripts and other original materials, photographs and audiovisual materials, secondary-source materials, printed matter and ephemera, and other documents relating to the history, residents, organizations, and businesses of Berks, Chester, and Lancaster counties. There is also some material relating to Delaware, Montgomery, and other nearby counties in Pennsylvania.

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

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Estelle Cremers papers, circa 1982-2008

Extent:
13.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Estelle Harrop Cremers (1925-2010) was active in historic preservation, especially in Chester County, Pennsylvania, from the 1970s to the 2000s. Cremers served on boards and commissions of local historical organizations, helped develop the French and Pickering Creek Trust, worked as the coordinator for the Chester County Comprehensive Historic Sites Survey, researched and wrote nominations for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places, free-lanced as a historic property and land researcher, and wrote five books on local townships. Estelle Cremers papers, circa 1982-2008, consist primarily of research materials accumulated or created by Cremers that relate to Chester County locations, properties, businesses, people, and other history related topics. Some of the research in the collection relates to locations in Montgomery, Berks, Lancaster, and other Pennsylvania counties. There is also some correspondence and other non-research related materials in the collection.

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

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Uwchlan Township Historical Commission subject files, 1979-2014 (bulk) 1928-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
30.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Originally inhabited by Leni-Lenape (Delaware) and Iroquoian-speaking Susquehanuck peoples, Uwchlan Township in Chester County, Pennsylvania was settled by Welsh Quakers in the early 18th century. The township was founded in 1712. It remained a largely rural farming community until a post-World War II suburbanization boom. The Uwchlan Township Historical Commission subject files, 1928-2014 (bulk 1979-2014), consist largely of secondary-source materials with some primary-source documents. The collection is arranged into five series, each relating to the local history of the township: Subjects, People, Schools, Government records, and Binders.

Held at: Uwchlan Township Historical Commission [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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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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Wharton Esherick family papers, 1920-1970 (bulk) 1895-1996 (inclusive)

Extent:
10.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Wharton Esherick (1887-1970) was a sculptor who worked primarily in wood, readily extending his unique forms to furniture, furnishings, utensils, interiors and buildings, creating sculptural environments. He has been called the link between the Arts and Crafts Movement and the resurgent interest in furniture making following World War II, the dean of American craftsmen, and the foundation of the current Studio Furniture Movement. The Wharton Esherick family papers, 1895-1996 (bulk 1920-1970), consist of correspondence, work documentation, financial papers, publicity clippings, photographs, and other materials that primarily document Esherick's work and to a lesser extent his personal life and the personal lives of his immediate family.

Held at: Wharton Esherick Museum [Contact Us]

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