Geology has epochs. Kingdoms have dynasties. Families have generations. Painters have artistic periods. What do townships have? How is time measured for communities?

Tredyffrin Township has witnessed important historical events throughout its four-hundred-year history of colonial and American life. There is no one period that outshines all others. During these centuries, Tredyffrin has evolved from a genteel tapestry of adjoining fields, shouldering hills and small connecting roads to a modern, highly-developed community interlaced with major highways. Even so, numerous notable historic sites and landmarks are still found scattered throughout Tredyffrin’s nineteen square miles.

Today, little of the fabric that connects Tredyffrin's places is readily discernable. Tracts that were once adjacent are now divided by high-speed roads and railways. Places and times cannot be easily associated. With the physical lands disconnected, now only time can bind these histories. These times are what we might call Tredyffrin’s eras.

The Tredyffrin Historical Commission is examining the township’s historic eras as a means to reconnect Township places and revitalize the importance of Tredyffrin’s notable histories. With the coming of America 250 and the celebration of the founding of the country, connections with past eras hold inspiration and motivation for our community’s future.

Rob Williams, Chair of the Tredyffrin Historical Commission, will introduce the eras project using an exciting new interactive presentation software platform. Please bring your smartphone to add your own interpretation of Tredyffrin’s history during the presentation.