Introduction to West Chester, Pennsylvania
West Chester, Pennsylvania, in Chester county, is 15 miles N of Wilmington, Delaware (center to center) and 23 miles W of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
West Chester History
The community of West Chester, which was founded in the 1700s, was initially known as "Turk's Head," after an inn in the area. The borough was established by members of the Society of Friends. West Chester became the seat of Chester County in 1786 and was officially incorporated in 1799. The QVC studios, where shopping network programs are televised, is based in West Chester. Among the well known residents of the borough were civil rights leader Bayard Rustin, composer Samuel Barber, and artist Philip Jamison.
West Chester and Nearby Attractions
- American Helicopter Museum
- Brandywine Battlefield
- Chester County Historical Society
- Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site
- Elmwood Park Zoo
- French Creek State Park
Things To Do In West Chester
West Chester is home to the Chester County Historical Society, and the American Helicopter Museum. In addition, the borough is near numerous museums and historic sites such as the Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, Valley Forge National Historical Park, Brandywine Battlefield, Caleb Pusey House and Landingford Plantation, Brandywine River Museum, and Wharton Esherick Museum. Bayard Rustin Park, Hoopes Park, Everhart Park, and John O. Green Memorial Park are some of the popular parks in the community. Residents of West Chester also host annual events like the Goshen Country Fair, May Day Festival of the Arts, Harvest Festival, Turks Head Music Festival, and Halloween Parade.
West Chester Transportation
Air transportation is available from Philadelphia International Airport.
West Chester Higher Education
West Chester University of Pennsylvania is located in West Chester. Among the other colleges close by are Penn State Great Valley, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, and Neumann College.
