In 1995, there was no community-wide celebration in Newtown. But one was planned. The Newtown Square Historical Society hosted a full day of activities to highlight the history of the township. Eight historic properties were open to the public, with costumed guides. George Washington, Ben Franklin and Betsy Ross were there for the opening festivities. Volunteer coordinator Jan Elston said she hoped that a successful event would allow the group to make the event an annual one. “We’ve been working on bringing this society back to life. It’s been lagging for a while and we hope to make this the spark,” shared Jan.
On June 3, 2023, the Society celebrated its 27th Historic Newtown Square Day. Obviously, the spark that was lit in 1995 continues to burn. We had beautiful weather and a day full of activities for visitors, at our five Nationally Registered sites and three other sites that welcomed guests and hosted activities. We publish an annual program book, and the theme this year was “Volunteers Through the Years.” Inside, we looked at how volunteerism shaped America and its communities, through individual efforts, group efforts, service clubs and organizations, and now volunteers serving on government committees.
As George Bailey found out in “It’s a Wonderful Life,” our community would be a bleak place without the work that volunteers have contributed. Each generation must learn that lesson. In 1995, the Greatest Generation in Newtown created this community event, and over the years handed it off to the Baby Boomers to continue it. And we have. The 2023 event was a great success. But our volunteer organizations are aging in place. We would love to have new blood, Generation X, Millennials, anyone with the willingness to contribute to the community, to step up and offer their time and treasure – to any of our volunteer organizations: Little League, Petticoat League, Friends of the Library, the Fire Department, the Newtown Square Business Association, Trails and Greenway Committee, Benjamin West Society, Gather in the Circle, the Newtown Square Railroad Museum, the plethora of government committees listed on the Township website, and of course, everyone’s favorite historic society.
President Kennedy challenged his generation, telling them to “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.” Those are good words for each succeeding generation. Invest in the community where you intend to raise your family. You won’t regret it.
For more history on Newtown Square, Delaware County, and membership information, please visit our website at: nshistory.org.
