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Start Over Subject Local history Year 1850 to 1899

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Aston Township Historical Society local history collection, circa 1806-2015

Extent:
75.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The area that is known as Aston Township was incorporated as a township of Chester County in 1688 and became a part of Delaware County when the latter county was established in 1789. Today, due to its proximity to both Philadelphia, PA and Wilmington, DE, Aston Township is predominantly a residential area with various local organizations and community events. The Aston Township Historical Society local history collection, circa 1806-2015, consists of various materials, including organizational, church, township, and school records; scrapbooks and photographs; subject and vertical files; and other materials that document the history, residents, businesses, and other aspects of Aston Township.

Held at: Aston Township Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Malvern Historical Commission historic property research files, 1970-2015 (bulk) 1889-2015 (inclusive)

Extent:
6.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Around the time of the United States bicentennial, the Chester County (Pennsylvania) 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 Malvern Historical Commission historic property files, 1889-2015 (bulk 1970-2015), consist of research compiled on historic homes in Malvern, including deed research, maps, atlases, and historic property survey forms that were originally created as part of the Chester County Historic Sites Survey. The collection is arranged into three series: I. Subject files, II. Property files, and III. Oversized materials.

Held at: Malvern Historical Commission [Contact Us]

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West Nantmeal Township Historical Commission local history collection, 1759-2015 (inclusive)

Extent:
4.0 linear feet
Abstract:
In the first decades of the 18th century, emigrants from Radnorshire, Wales settled in the area that would become Nantmeal Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Nantmeal Township was divided into East and West Nantmeal townships in 1739, and Honey Brook Township and Wallace Township later separated from West Nantmeal Township in 1789 and 1852, respectively. In the 18th and early 19th centuries, West Nantmeal was home to farms, mills and forges, including the Isabella Furnace. As of 2015, West Nantmeal remains a largely rural community. The West Nantmeal Township Historical Commission local history collection, 1759-2015, consists of a mix of primary and secondary source materials relating to the history, residents, businesses, and other topics related to West Nantmeal Township. The materials include manuscripts, subject files, oral histories, CDs and DVDs, maps, and other materials.

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

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Radnor Historical Society map, atlas, and blueprint collection, 1872-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
7.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Radnor Township in Delaware County, Pennsylvania was founded in 1682, shortly after Welsh Quakers arrived on the lands previously home to the original inhabitants, the Lenni Lenape Indians. Development in the area increased when new transportation routes passed through the area, first the Lancaster Turnpike (the first toll road in America) in 1794, and then the Columbia (later Pennsylvania) Railroad in 1832. The township's population doubled between 1880 and 1890 with the birth of one of the country's first planned suburban developments, Wayne. Development and population boomed again in the wake of World War II and has continued to grow in the 21st century. The Radnor Historical Society map, atlas, and blueprint collection, 1872-2014, consists of several dozen atlases (including railroad maps, business atlases, property atlases, and other atlases); loose maps; and blueprints for private homes and for businesses. The geographic foci of the collection are Wayne, Radnor Township, the...(see more)

Held at: Radnor Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Sellersville Museum local history collection, 1770-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
15.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Originally settled in 1738, Sellersville, Bucks County, Pennsylvania was incorporated as a borough in 1874. In the second half of the 19th century, cigar, textile, and other industries established companies in Sellersville. As of 2014, Sellersville is mainly a commuter town, although some historic structures, including the Sellersville Theater and the Washington House, have been restored and are local attractions. The Sellersville Museum local history collection, 1770-2014, contains both primary and secondary-source materials, such as business ledgers, deeds, scrapbooks, photograph albums, newspaper clippings, and subject files relating to the people, businesses, organizations, and other aspects of Sellersville.

Held at: Sellersville Museum [Contact Us]

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Thornbury Historical Society local history collection, 1881-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
8.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The area now known as Thornbury Township, Delaware County, Pennsylvania was populated by Lenni-Lenape Native Americans when Europeans began to settle there in the 17th century. Influenced in part by its Quaker roots, Thornbury was an historically tolerant community, home of the oldest historically black college in the United States: the Institute for Colored Youth, now known as Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, relocated there from Philadelphia in 1902. Largely rural for most of its history, commercial and residential development in Thornbury expanded throughout the 20th century. The Thornbury Historical Society local history collection, 1881-2014, consists of various primary-source and secondary-source materials documenting people, places, organizations, and other topics relating to Thornbury Township and nearby areas. In addition to newspaper clippings, ephemera, and narrative historical essays, the collection features small amounts of World War I letters, Thornbury School...(see more)

Held at: Thornbury Historical Society [Contact Us]

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African American Museum in Philadelphia small collections, circa 1850-2014

Extent:
45.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Founded in 1976 in celebration of the nation's Bicentennial, the African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP) is the first institution funded and built by a major municipality to preserve, interpret and exhibit the heritage of African Americans. The museum is committed to telling the story of African Americans in all its permutations: family life, the Civil Rights movement, arts and entertainment, sports, medicine, architecture, politics, religion, law, and technology. The African American Museum in Philadelphia small collections, circa 1850-2014, consist of various small accumulations (less than one linear foot) of archival materials acquired from a variety of sources at various times. The collection focuses on, but is not limited to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, touching on all aspects of African American life and culture. It features a great variety of document types, such as correspondence, minute books, ephemera, photographs, clippings, scrapbooks, film reels, and much more.

Held at: African American Museum in Philadelphia [Contact Us]

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Delaware County Institute of Science manuscript collection, 1686-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
20.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Delaware County was the first section of Pennsylvania to be settled by Europeans, specifically Swedes in 1643. The Borough of Media, located about 12 miles outside of Philadelphia, has been the county seat of Delaware County since 1850. A largely rural area prior to that point, the town grew rapidly in the second half of the 19th century and throughout the 20th century. The Delaware County Institute of Science manuscript collection, 1686-2014, consists of a variety of local history materials including organizational records, business records, personal papers, photographs, scrapbooks, blueprints, subject files, maps and atlases, and other materials. Most of the materials relate to Delaware County (Pennsylvania), but some items pertain to other locations in Pennsylvania and other states. Although the 19th century is the best represented among the materials, there is a significant amount of materials from the 18th century and a few items from the 17th century.

Held at: Delaware County Institute of Science [Contact Us]

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Plumstead Historical Society local history collection, 1809-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
2.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The area of Plumstead Township (Bucks County, Pa.) was originally settled in the early 18th century by English Quakers, but soon grew into a diverse community. The township was officially established in 1725 and was initially an agrarian community, although many businesses and industries were eventually established due to the presence of a nearby highway. The Plumstead Historical Society local history collection, 1809-2014, consists of various primary and secondary-source materials donated to or collected by the Plumstead Historical Society relating to the history and residents of Plumstead Township.

Held at: Plumstead Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Wallace Township local history collection, 1789-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
30.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Although the first official survey of Wallace Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania took place in 1729, the Township was formally created in 1852 and has had multiple changes to its boundaries since. In the 18th and early 19th centuries, farms, mills, and forges dotted the landscape, but the late 19th century brought the railroad and considerable development of the area. A Pennsylvania Turnpike entrance was created near Wallace in 1950, and during the late 20th century, many residential subdivisions were built in the Township resulting in a substantial population increase. The Wallace Township Historical Commission local history collection, 1789-2014, consists of a mix of primary and secondary-source material relating to the history and residents of Wallace Township. Materials include scrapbooks, maps and blueprints, deeds, financial and administrative records, photographs, audio recordings, ephemera, correspondence, posters, and genealogy and other research materials.

Held at: Wallace Township Archives [Contact Us]

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Darby Free Library local history collection, 1970-2000 (bulk) 1873-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
12.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Darby Borough is located west of Cobbs Creek in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. The village of Darby had its first town meeting in 1683 and was incorporated as a borough in 1852. Nicknamed "The Gateway To The South" because of its status as a popular way station for travelers between Baltimore and Philadelphia, Darby was also an important stop for many freedom seekers on the Underground Railroad. The Darby Free Library local history collection, 1873-2014 (bulk 1970-2000), consists mostly of secondary-source materials, such as newspaper clippings, photocopies, computer print outs, color photographs from the late 20th century, flyers and pamphlets, and ephemera. There are also some original, primary-source documents, and a few maps and about half a dozen atlases of Darby, Delaware County, and vicinity.

Held at: Darby Free Library [Contact Us]

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Haverford Township Historical Society photograph collection, 1895-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
10.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Haverford Township is a suburb of Philadelphia situated near the wealthy "Main Line" west of the city. It encompasses the community of Havertown and parts of Haverford, Bryn Mawr, Ardmore, Drexel Hill, and Wynnewood in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. The Haverford Township Historical Society photograph collection, 1895-2014, depicts the people, buildings, and scenery of Haverford Township (Delaware County, Pennsylvania). Buildings, especially historic sites, are particularly well represented, but there are also family photographs and photographs of other subjects.

Held at: Haverford Township Historical Society [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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Nether Providence Historical Society local history collection, 1995-2014 (bulk) 1825-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
8.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Nether Providence Township in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, was incorporated in 1687. Over time, it progressed from a farming economy, to a manufacturing center with over a dozen mills, to a resort destination for wealthy Philadelphians, to a residential community. The Nether Providence Historical Society local history collection, 1825-2014 (bulk 1995-2014), consists of primary- and secondary-source materials relating to the residents, events, organizations, and structures, of Nether Providence Township in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. Most of the collection is organized into subject files, but there are additional materials stored separately, including a sizeable accumulation of 19th and early 20th century papers from the Byer family.

Held at: Nether Providence Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Radnor Historical Society subject files, circa 1860-2014

Extent:
27.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Radnor Township in Delaware County, Pennsylvania was founded in 1682, shortly after Welsh Quakers arrived on the lands previously home to the original inhabitants, the Lenni Lenape Indians. Development in the area increased when new transportation routes passed through the area, first the Lancaster Turnpike (the first toll road in America) in 1794, and then the Columbia (later Pennsylvania) Railroad in 1832. The township's population doubled between 1880 and 1890 with the birth of one of the country's first planned suburban developments, Wayne. Development and population boomed again in the wake of World War II and has continued to grow in the 21st century. The Radnor Historical Society subject files, circa 1860-2014, contain a general subject file with separate series for Streets, Estates, and Genealogy. Materials are mostly secondary-source, such as newspaper clippings, photocopies, printed materials, and ephemera, but there are also a large number of original photographs,...(see more)

Held at: Radnor Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Doylestown Historical Society subject files, 1880-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
32.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The area now known as Doylestown (Bucks County, Pennsylvania) was given to Edward Doyle as a land grant from William Penn in 1692. Doylestown became the county seat of Bucks County in 1812, and the area flourished when a railroad line was completed between Doylestown and Philadelphia in 1856. Doylestown's historic downtown began to deteriorate in the early 1960s, but the town was revitalized in part due to an architectural preservation movement. The Doylestown Historical Society subject files, 1880-2013, are organized into the following series: I. Local history; II. Businesses; III. Biographies; and IV. Locations. It consists mostly of newspaper clippings and other secondary-source materials, with some primary-source documents such as ephemera, newsletters, pamphlets, photographs, invoices, deeds, advertisements, and some business records.

Held at: Doylestown Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Bristol History photograph collection, circa 1860-2013

Extent:
7.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Bristol Borough in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, became an important area due to its location along the Delaware River, a major land route, and subsequent rail line linking Philadelphia and New York City. Incorporated in 1720, it served as the county seat from 1705 to 1726. The Bristol History photograph collection, circa 1860-2013, consists of various photographs, mostly originals with some copies, relating to Bristol (Bucks County, Pennsylvania) and surrounding areas.

Held at: Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library [Contact Us]

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Bristol History small collections, 1749-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
25.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Bristol Borough in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, became an important area due to its location along the Delaware River, a major land route, and subsequent rail line linking Philadelphia and New York City. Incorporated in 1720, it served as the county seat from 1705 to 1726. The Bristol History small collections, 1749-2013, consist of various individual manuscript volumes and small collections relating to the people, businesses, properties, and organizations of Bristol, Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Of special interest are Doron Green and William Kinsey scrapbooks, and a collection of William Bache papers.

Held at: Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library [Contact Us]

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Quakertown Historical Society local history "blue books", circa 1842-2013

Extent:
20.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Quakertown, Pennsylvania, incorporated in 1855, is a town located in the northeast portion of Upper Bucks County. The town remained quite small until the mid-nineteenth century, when the construction of the North Pennsylvania Railroad helped turn it into a significant commercial center. The Quakertown Historical Society local history "blue books," circa 1842-2013, consist primarily of newspaper clippings, with a fair amount of primary-source documents including photographs, ephemera, and scattered original documents, all pertaining to the subject of Quakertown and its history.

Held at: Quakertown Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Solebury Township Historical Society local history collection, 1980-2013 (bulk) 1847-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
5.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Originally part of Buckingham Township, the township of Solebury in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, was incorporated circa 1702. Industries, particularly farming, became prevalent in the area by the 19th century; the picturesque landscape also drew many prominent artists to the area. The Solebury Township Historical Society local history collection, 1847-2013 (bulk 1980-2013), consists largely of subject files on local history topics that include newspaper clippings, ephemera, printed materials, Ned Harrington (Hillside Press) publications, and pamphlets, with some original documents. Also included in the collection are some original photographs, and to a lesser extent manuscripts and oral histories. Of special interest are two minute books of the nativist fraternal organization, Order of United Americans, Cuttalossa Temple No. 15 (Solebury, Pa.), 1898-1900 and 1905-1915.

Held at: Solebury Township Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Upper Darby Historical Society local history collection, 1920-2013 (bulk) 1799-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
40.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Upper Darby in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, was one of the earliest settlements west of Philadelphia. It incorporated from Darby Township in 1736. Primarily an area of mills and farms, the township experienced rapid development beginning in 1907 when the Sixty-Ninth Street Terminal, a transportation hub for those going farther west, was built. The Upper Darby Historical Society local history collection, 1799-2013 (bulk 1920-2013), consists of various materials that document Upper Darby families, individuals, organizations, institutions, and events over time. Most materials are secondary-source, such as newspaper clippings, photocopies or photographs of original documents, narrative histories, research notes, and printed or published works. There are also some primary-source documents, including maps, scrapbooks, deeds, photographs, slides, ephemera, correspondence, autograph books, and more.

Held at: Upper Darby Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Historical Society of the Phoenixville Area photograph and film collection, circa 1880-2013

Extent:
36.5 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 photograph and film collection, circa 1880-2013, consists primarily of photographic prints, with some slides, picture postcards, film negatives, photograph albums, a few glass plate negatives, and 16mm film reels that document various aspects of Phoenixville's history.

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

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Media Historic Archives Commission subject files, 1842-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
41.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Borough of Media is the county seat of Delaware County, Pennsylvania, located about 12 miles outside of Philadelphia. The area was settled by Europeans beginning in the 1680s, Media became the county seat in 1850. A largely rural area prior to that point, the town grew rapidly in the second half of the 19th century and throughout the 20th century. About half of the materials in the Media Historic Archives Commission subject files, 1842-2013, are secondary source (newspaper clippings, narrative histories, and photocopies and transcriptions of original documents), and the other half is primary source (largely pamphlets and ephemera and photographs, with some correspondence, financial papers, organizational records, maps, and other documents). The collection focuses on various local history topics relating to Media and vicinity, such as local schools, churches, organizations and associations, people, military, black history, and other topics.

Held at: Media Historic Archives Commission [Contact Us]

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Newtown Historic Association vertical files, 1960-2013 (bulk) 1850-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
65.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Newtown was the county seat of Bucks County, Pennsylvania from 1726 to 1813. The Newtown Historic Association vertical files, circa 1960-2013, consist primarily of photocopied newspaper clippings, with some copies of primary source documents, ephemera, and other materials. The collection is organized into four series: People, Subjects, Streets, and Obituaries.

Held at: Newtown Historic Association [Contact Us]

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Newtown Historic Association small collections, circa 1700-2013

Extent:
30.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Newtown, the county seat of Bucks County from 1726 to 1813, is one of the most historic areas in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. The Newtown Historic Association small collections, circa 1700 to 2013, consist of small collections of mostly original archival material from families, businesses, and organizations from Newtown and surrounding areas.

Held at: Newtown Historic Association [Contact Us]

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New Hope Historical Society photograph collection, circa 1880-2013

Extent:
3.0 linear feet
Abstract:
New Hope in Bucks County, Pennsylvania is at the half-way point between Philadelphia and New York City along Old York Road. The borough was incorporated in 1837. The New Hope Historical Society photograph collection, circa 1880-2013, consists of various photographs of New Hope and the surrounding region.

Held at: New Hope Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Newtown Square Historical Society local history collection, 1744-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
11.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Established in 1681, Newtown Township (Newtown Square), is the oldest township in Delaware County, Pennsylvania and has over 100 historic structures still standing. Newtown Square Historical Society local history collection, 1744-2013, includes various original manuscripts, secondary-source materials, and digital files that document the individuals, families, organizations, and landscape of the Newtown Square area. Materials in the collection include ledgers, photographs, letters, deeds, pamphlets, ephemera, maps, newspaper clippings, and photocopies and scans of articles and primary source documents.

Held at: Newtown Square Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Old York Road Historical Society vertical files, circa 1890-2013

Extent:
67.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Montgomery County, situated in southeastern Pennsylvania and established in 1784 out of the western portion of Philadelphia County, has played an important role in U.S. history. Since its founding, it has experienced "booming industry and manufacturing, rich farm fields, advanced transportation, artistic endeavors and unique religious beliefs." The Old York Road Historical Society vertical files, circa 1890-2013, consist largely of copy and original newspaper clippings, pamphlets, mailings, ephemera, amateur historian and academic history articles, and a small amount of original manuscripts. It is organized into several series: People, General area, Municipalities (mostly eastern Montgomery County), and Areas outside coverage (such as Bucks County and Philadelphia).

Held at: Old York Road Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Chichester Historical Society local history collection, 1980-2005 (bulk) 1880-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
9.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Chichester, located along the southeastern border of Pennsylvania in Delaware County, encompasses Marcus Hook and Trainer Boroughs as well as Upper and Lower Chichester Townships. Originally inhabited by Lenni Lenape, it was settled fifty years before William Penn by Swedes and Finns. The river tier area provided fertile water meadows for farming; later, the river made the location ideal for mercantile ventures and powered industrial development. The Chichester Historical Society local history collection, 1880-2013, consists primarily of secondary-source materials, such as newspaper clippings, copies of historical documents and photographs, pamphlets and ephemera. There is a small quantity of original and primary-source documents. The most prominent subjects are: Marcus Hook, Trainer, Upper Chichester, Lower Chichester, Delaware County, Delaware River and Ships, and Swedes and Finns.

Held at: Chichester Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Delaware County Historical Society vertical files, circa 1850-2013

Extent:
85.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Delaware County was the first section of Pennsylvania to be settled by Europeans, specifically Swedes in 1643. It was in the city of Chester, the original county seat of Delaware County, that William Penn and the General Assembly of Pennsylvania adopted Penn's "Great Law of Pennsylvania," which granted the right to vote, citizenship, freedom of religion and trial by jury to all settlers. Located adjacent to Philadelphia, Delaware County's suburban population grew rapidly in the 19th and 20th centuries. The Delaware County Historical Society vertical files, circa 1850-2013, cover various local topics. Materials are mostly newspaper clippings, photocopies of newspaper articles, pamphlets and ephemera, research notes, narrative histories, transcripts, indexes, printed materials, copies of church and civil records, death and funeral records, and census and tax records, as well as some original documents and oral histories on audiocassette tapes and CDs.

Held at: Delaware County Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Haycock Historical Society subject files, 2000-2013 (bulk) 1860-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
10.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Haycock Township in Bucks County, Pennsylvania was established in 1763. The Haycock Historical Society subject files, 1860-2013 (bulk 2000-2013), pertain to the local history of Haycock Township. The collection is arranged by subject and consists almost entirely of photocopies and computer print-outs, with some newspaper clippings and very few original documents.

Held at: Haycock Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Springfield Township Historical Society genealogy and subject files, 1985-2013 (bulk) 1832-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
14.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Springfield Township in Bucks County, Pennsylvania was surveyed and laid out in 1743. The township was primarily a rural farming community for most of its history, although its population increased with suburbanization in the late 20th century. The Springfield Township Historical Society genealogy and subject files, 1832-2013 (bulk 1985-2013), cover numerous local history topics and local families. The collection consists largely of secondary-source materials, principally newspaper clippings, research notes, and narrative histories. A small quantity of original documents is mixed in.

Held at: Springfield Township Historical Society (Bucks County, Pa.) [Contact Us]

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West Caln Township Historical Commission local history collection, 1990-2013 (bulk) 1851-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
10.0 linear feet
Abstract:
West Caln Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, was officially recognized as a Township in 1744. The area developed due to its location along what was known as Kings Highway (now Route 340), the main road between Philadelphia and Lancaster. The West Caln Township Historical Commission local history collection, 1851-2013 (bulk 1990-2013), consists mostly of secondary-source materials such as newspaper clippings, photocopies, and research notes, with some original documents including maps, photographs, letters, oral histories, and deeds. The collection documents various West Caln Township individuals, families, organizations, and properties. It is organized based on document type and subject: "I. Subject files," "II. Obituaries," "III. Genealogy reference," "IV. Census records," "V. Deeds," "VI. Tax records," "VII. House histories," "VIII. Audiovisual materials," "IX. Photographs," "X. Maps," and "XI. Local manuscripts."

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

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Chadds Ford Historical Society photograph and document collection, circa 1865-2013

Extent:
10.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Chadds Ford in Delaware County, Pennsylvania was historically a crossroads, first a fording point across the Brandywine River and later near the intersection of two train lines. It is known for its role in the Revolutionary War--the Battle of the Brandywine was fought here in 1777--and in art history--Howard Pyle's studio and students gave rise to the Brandywine School of Art, fostered by three generations of the Wyeth family. The Chadds Ford Historical Society photograph and document collection, circa 1865-2013, consists of various documents, such as deeds, correspondence, and financial papers; photographs, including daguerreotypes and tintypes; and maps; that document the people, places, and landscape of the Chadds Ford area.

Held at: Chadds Ford Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Pat Stopper collection on Northeast Philadelphia history, circa 1880-2013 (bulk 1980-2005)

Extent:
8.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Patricia Worthington Stopper (born 1928) was a local historian in Northeast Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She is involved in many Northeast Philadelphia history societies and groups and has researched and written extensively about the neighborhoods of Bustleton, Somerton, and Byberry. She has also given presentations and lectures at schools, libraries, and historical groups about Northeast Philadelphia history. The Pat Stopper collection on Northeast Philadelphia (Philadelphia, Pa.) history, circa 1880-2013 (bulk 1980-2005), consists of scrapbooks, maps, audio and video recordings, and photographs all relating to Northeast Philadelphia, especially the neighborhoods of Bustleton, Somerton, and Byberry.

Held at: Friends of Northeast Philadelphia History [Contact Us]

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Historic Carversville Society local history collection, 1970-1990 (bulk) 1793-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
3.5 linear feet
Abstract:
A prime example of a 19th-century farming community, Carversville in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, was one of the first districts to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. The Historic Carversville Society local history collection, 1793-2013 (bulk 1970-1990), contains various materials, including oral histories, photographs, newspaper clippings, ephemera, and two deeds, that document Carversville local history.

Held at: Historic Carversville Society [Contact Us]

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Historical Society of Bensalem Township local history collection, 1770-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
12.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Settled by the Dutch, Swedes, and English, Bensalem Township in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, was a farming community until the 1950s and 1960s when the area underwent a significant amount of suburban development. Historical Society of Bensalem Township local history collection, 1770-2013, consists of maps, deeds, photographs, ledgers, and other original, primary-source documents relating to the history of Bensalem Township and surrounding areas.

Held at: Historical Society of Bensalem Township [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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Newtown Historic Association photograph collection, circa 1870-2013

Extent:
38.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Newtown, the county seat of Bucks County from 1726 to 1813, is one of the most historic areas in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. The Newtown Historic Association photograph collection, circa 1870-2013, consists of roughly 15,000 original photographs organized by subject and format. Some of the subjects documented include agriculture, events, parks, people, streets, organizations, schools, and businesses. Special formats include large-format photographs, panoramas, tintypes, and glass plate negatives.

Held at: Newtown Historic Association [Contact Us]

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Mike Donovan research on Newtown during wartime and Newtown veterans, 1960-2013 (bulk) 1870-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
3.33 linear feet
Abstract:
Michael J. Donovan is a resident of Newtown, Bucks County, Pennsylvania, and U.S. Coast Guard veteran who for the past 50 or so years, has researched Newtown's history during times of war, particularly Newtown veterans. Mike Donovan research on Newtown during wartime, 1870-2013 (bulk 1960-2013), consists of primarily secondary-source materials, such as narrative histories (many written by Donovan), research notes, newspaper clippings, and copies of original documents and photographs with a fair amount of primary-source documents that Donovan acquired from the families of veterans, such as photographs and letters.

Held at: Newtown Historic Association [Contact Us]

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New Hope Historical Society local history collection, 1970-2013 (bulk) 1763-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
5.0 linear feet
Abstract:
New Hope in Bucks County, Pennsylvania is at the half-way point between Philadelphia and New York City along Old York Road. The borough was incorporated in 1837. The New Hope Historical Society local history collection, 1763-2013 (bulk 1970-2013), includes subject files with newspaper clippings and ephemera as well as scattered original documents and manuscripts. There are ten volumes of New Hope Borough tax records, circa 1860-1890.

Held at: New Hope Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Sharon Hill Historical Society local history collection, 1879-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
10.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Sharon Hill is a community in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, just outside of Philadelphia. Largely undeveloped until 1872, the construction of a railroad in the area spurred residential and commercial growth. Sharon Hill separated from Darby Township and incorporated as a borough in 1890. The Sharon Hill Historical Society local history collection, 1879-2013, consists mostly of secondary-source and copied materials with a sizeable amount of photographs and scattered other primary-source documents relating to Sharon Hill and its history.

Held at: Sharon Hill Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Tinicum Township Historical Society local history collection, 1900-2000 (bulk) 1791-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
25.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Tinicum Township is located along the Delaware River in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. Credited as the first recorded European settlement in Pennsylvania, it became capital of the New Sweden Colony in 1643 under Governor Johan Printz. Later, its prominent features became the Lazaretto, a quarantine station erected along the Delaware River in 1801; Westinghouse Electric Company; and Lester Piano Works. The Tinicum Township Historical Society local history collection, 1791-2013 (bulk 1900-2000), includes a wide variety of materials on the local history of Tinicum. It is largely made up of secondary-source materials and ephemera, although it also contains a significant amount of photographs, architectural drawings, and maps.

Held at: Tinicum Township Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Yardley Historical Association local history collection, 1883-2013 (bulk) 1741-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
9.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Yardley Borough in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, was settled in 1682 by Quaker minister William Yeardley who purchased a tract of land from William Penn. Following the completion of the Bristol-New Hope section of the Delaware Canal in 1831, new commerce and trade poured into the town, then called "Yardleyville." The town continued to grow following the completion of the New York branch of the railroad in 1876 that included a nearby station. Yardley was incorporated as a borough in 1895. The Yardley Historical Association local history collection, 1741-2013 (bulk 1883-2013), is organized into two series: I. Subject files and II. Manuscripts. The Subject files include pamphlets and ephemera, photocopies of historical documents, and photographs, relating to local history topics, such as floods and Black history in Yardley. The Manuscripts include various materials, such as documents, minute books, photographs, scrapbooks, and oral histories, that document Yardley individuals, families,...(see more)

Held at: Yardley Historical Association [Contact Us]

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Bridesburg Historical Society local history collection, 1816-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
10.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Bridesburg Historical Society local history collection, 1812-2012, includes original and reproduction photographs, newsletters and ephemera, clippings, research materials, and a small amount of original documents and deeds relating to Bridesburg in northeast Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Held at: Bridesburg Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Dublin Historical Society local history collection, 1885-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
2.6 linear feet
Abstract:
Dublin Borough in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, is located just northwest of Doylestown, the county seat. Located in a prosperous farming area, Dublin was incorporated as an independent municipality in 1912. The Dublin Historical Society local history collection, 1885-2012, consists of various materials such as ledgers, photographs, papers, and ephemera that document individuals, families, organizations, and businesses of Dublin, Pennsylvania.

Held at: Dublin Historical Society [Contact Us]

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East Falls Historical Society local history collection, 1897-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
11.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The East Falls Historical Society local history collection, 1897-2012, is comprised mostly of newspaper clippings with some pamphlets, invitations, and ephemera. Some files focus on individuals or families, while others cover businesses, schools, churches, community organizations, or historic sites/houses significant in the history of the East Falls section of Philadelphia.

Held at: East Falls Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Historic Langhorne Association photograph and photo postcard collection, circa 1867-2012

Extent:
4.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Settled by Quakers beginning in 1680, the small town of Langhorne in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, grew as an important transportation center between Trenton and Philadelphia due to its location at the intersection of major roads connecting the two cities. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the town, which served as a stop along the rail line, became a popular summer vacation destination for wealthy Philadelphians. The Historic Langhorne Association photograph and photo postcard collection, circa 1867-2012 contains photographs, postcards, negatives, and oversized images that document the people, buildings, events, and streets of Langhorne, Bucks County, Pennsylvania and the surrounding area from the mid-19th century until the present.

Held at: Historic Langhorne Association [Contact Us]

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Lansdale Historical Society local history subject files, 1970-2012 (bulk) 1762-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
22.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Lansdale in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania became a boom town during the mid-19th century when a junction of the North Pennsylvania Railroad was established where the center of the town is now located. The Borough of Lansdale was incorporated on August 24, 1872. The Lansdale Historical Society local history subject files, 1762-2012 (bulk 1970-2012), are comprised of newspaper clippings, copies of secondary research materials, some pamphlets and ephemera, and a very small amount of original primary documents. Materials document churches, community histories, people, organizations, businesses and local government agencies.

Held at: Lansdale Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Plymouth Meeting Historical Society subject files, 1950-1990 (bulk) 1787-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
19.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Plymouth Meeting (in Plymouth and Whitemarsh Townships) in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, was settled during the late 17th century by English and Welsh Quaker and German immigrants. In 1686, the discovery of limestone drew more settlers to the area. Several railroad lines were constructed in the area during the 19th century, which encouraged a growth in industry. Plymouth and Whitemarsh grew significantly after World War II, especially during the latter decades of the 20th century after completion of the Blue Route (Interstate 476) with its major interchange in Plymouth Township. The Plymouth Meeting Historical Society subject files, 1787-2012, document Plymouth and Whitemarsh local history including people, families, buildings and locales, events, and organizations. Most of the materials are secondary-source, such as newspaper clippings, photocopies, research notes, pamphlets, and ephemera with a small amount of original, primary source documents.

Held at: Plymouth Meeting Historical Society [Contact Us]

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