40 Facts About Delco

40 Facts about Delco

Delaware County, commonly known as Delco, is a fascinating place with a rich history and vibrant culture. Here are some intriguing facts about this unique region.

Historical Significance

Delco has a storied past that has shaped its present. Let's dive into some historical tidbits.

1. 01Delaware County was established in 1789 after splitting from Chester County. This makes it one of the oldest counties in Pennsylvania.
2. 02The Battle of Brandywine took place in Delco during the American Revolutionary War. This battle was one of the largest and most significant of the war.
3. 03Chester, the county seat, is one of the oldest cities in Pennsylvania. It was settled by Swedes in 1644, long before Pennsylvania was even a state.
4. 04The Caleb Pusey House, built in 1683, is the oldest English house in Pennsylvania still standing on its original site.
5. 05Delco was a major industrial hub in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Baldwin Locomotive Works, once the largest producer of steam locomotives, was located here.

Cultural Highlights

Delco is not just about history; it has a vibrant culture that continues to thrive.

6. 06The Media Theatre, built in 1927, is a historic landmark and still hosts live performances today.
7. 07Delco is home to the Hedgerow Theatre, the oldest repertory theatre in the United States, founded in 1923.
8. 08The county has a strong Irish-American community, celebrated annually with the Delco Irish Festival.
9. 09The Lansdowne Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1945, is one of the oldest community orchestras in the country.
10. 10Delco's music scene is vibrant, with local bands often performing at venues like The Tower Theater in Upper Darby.

Natural Beauty

Delco offers stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities for nature lovers.

11. 11Ridley Creek State Park spans over 2,600 acres. It's a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and picnicking.
12. 12John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, partly located in Delco, is the first urban refuge in the United States.
13. 13The county has over 30 miles of trails for biking and walking, including the scenic Chester Creek Trail.
14. 14Tyler Arboretum, established in 1825, is one of the oldest and largest arboreta in the northeastern United States.
15. 15The Brandywine River offers excellent opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.

Educational Institutions

Delco is home to several prestigious educational institutions.

16. 16Swarthmore College, founded in 1864, is one of the top liberal arts colleges in the country.
17. 17Widener University, established in 1821, offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
18. 18Delaware County Community College serves over 28,000 students annually, providing affordable education and training.
19. 19Penn State Brandywine, a commonwealth campus of Pennsylvania State University, is located in Media.
20. 20The Williamson College of the Trades, founded in 1888, offers free tuition to young men pursuing technical education.

Sports and Recreation

Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to cheer about in Delco.

21. 21The Philadelphia Union, a Major League Soccer team, plays its home games at Subaru Park in Chester.
22. 22Delco has a rich high school sports tradition, with numerous state championships in football, basketball, and lacrosse.
23. 23The county is home to several golf courses, including the historic Llanerch Country Club, which hosted the 1958 PGA Championship.
24. 24IceWorks Skating Complex in Aston is a premier facility for ice hockey and figure skating.
25. 25The Delco League, founded in 1908, is one of the oldest amateur baseball leagues in the country.

Famous Residents

Delco has been home to many notable individuals who have made their mark in various fields.

26. 26Tina Fey, the famous comedian and actress, grew up in Upper Darby.
27. 27Jim Croce, the legendary singer-songwriter, was born in South Philadelphia but raised in Upper Darby.
28. 28Todd Rundgren, a renowned musician and producer, hails from Upper Darby.
29. 29Jamie Kennedy, the actor and comedian, was born in Upper Darby.
30. 30John Cappelletti, the 1973 Heisman Trophy winner, attended Monsignor Bonner High School in Drexel Hill.

Unique Attractions

Delco boasts some unique attractions that are worth a visit.

31. 31The American Helicopter Museum in West Chester showcases the history of rotary-wing aviation.
32. 32The Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation, located in Ridley Creek State Park, offers a glimpse into 18th-century farm life.
33. 33The Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College features over 4,000 kinds of ornamental plants.
34. 34The Rose Tree Park Summer Festival offers free outdoor concerts and performances every summer.
35. 35The Tyler Arboretum hosts the annual Pumpkin Days Festival, a family-friendly event with hayrides, crafts, and more.

Food and Drink

Delco's culinary scene is diverse and delicious.

36. 36Delco is famous for its hoagies, a type of sandwich that originated in the Philadelphia area.
37. 37The county has a thriving craft beer scene, with breweries like 2SP Brewing Company and Sterling Pig Brewery.
38. 38Delco is home to several historic taverns, including the General Warren Inne, which dates back to 1745.
39. 39The Italian Market in Boothwyn offers a variety of fresh produce, meats, and cheeses.
40. 40Delco's diners are legendary, with places like the Llanerch Diner gaining fame for their classic American fare.

Delco's Unique Charm

Delco's got a lot more than meets the eye. From its rich history to quirky traditions, there's always something new to learn. Whether you're a local or just passing through, these 40 facts give a glimpse into what makes this place special. The mix of historical landmarks, cultural spots, and local legends creates a unique vibe you won't find anywhere else.

Next time you're in Delco, take a moment to appreciate its hidden gems. Maybe visit a historic site, try a local dish, or just chat with a resident. You'll find that Delco's charm lies in its blend of old and new, tradition and innovation. So, keep exploring, keep learning, and most importantly, keep enjoying all that Delco has to offer.