West Chester, PA

The Borough of West Chester has been the seat of government in Chester County since 1786 although it wasn’t incorporated until 1799. In the heart of the town is its courthouse, a classical revival building designed in the 1840s by Thomas U. Walter, one of the architects for the Capitol in Washington, D. C. Legal offices abound throughout. Today West Chester is part of the rapidly growing suburban complex surrounding Philadelphia.

The area was originally known as Turk’s Head after the Inn of the same name located in what is now the center of the borough and was settled principally by members of the Society of Friends. Today the downtown is filled with art galleries, unique retail shops, and a full array of restaurants to please gourmand tastes.

West Chester University, the fourth largest Philadelphia-area university, offers undergraduate and graduate programs. The West Chester Historical Society interprets the history of Chester County with programs and exhibits and a collection to serve researchers. Extraordinary Bed and Breakfast facilities are located in and around the West Chester historic countryside to welcome visitors.