🪦 Historic Civil War Cemetery | ♞ Chesco Ren Faire | ⚒️ Early Local Iron Industry | and more!

In Today’s Edition of Downingtown Local Pulse…

☀️ Downingtown PA Weather

🪦 Preserving the Past: Westtown to Install Marker for Shiloh AME Cemetery

🎓 WCU to Inaugurate New President

⚒️ Forging a Nation: The Early Iron Industry of Chester County

♞ Chester County Renaissance Faire

🐓 Old Caln Historical Society to Host Talk on Chester County’s Barns

🗓️ Upcoming Local Events

🏡 Just Listed Real Estate Listings

🔎 Local Business Finder

Preserving the Past: Westtown to Install Marker for Shiloh AME Cemetery

WEST CHESTER, PA — For more than a century, the Shiloh AME Church was a vital institution for Chester County’s Black community, providing a place of worship and burial. Though the church was demolished in the 1960s, its cemetery remains—though long neglected, with only one gravestone left standing. Among those buried there are 14 Black Civil War veterans.

In an effort to preserve this fading history, Westtown Township has approved a historic marker, the first in the township dedicated to African American heritage. The Friends of Shiloh AME Church and Cemetery, a local group of historians and descendants, have led the initiative with support from historical organizations. With $4,000 needed for the project, fundraising is now underway. The marker, to be placed along Little Shiloh Road, will offer long-overdue recognition to a site of deep historical significance.

West Chester University to Inaugurate Dr. Laurie Bernotsky as 16th President

WEST CHESTER, PA — West Chester University will inaugurate Dr. Laurie Bernotsky as its 16th president on March 28, celebrating with a weeklong series of events emphasizing inclusivity and community engagement. A first-generation college graduate and experienced higher education leader, Dr. Bernotsky now leads Pennsylvania’s largest R2 institution. The inauguration events will include student-focused activities, faculty research showcases, and a scholarship gala, reflecting her vision for WCU’s future.

Keynote Speakers and Expert Panels Highlight Collaborative Real Estate Summit

The Collaborative Real Estate Summit 2025 is set to take place on March 26 in King of Prussia, offering a day of industry insights, networking, and education for real estate professionals. Featuring high-profile speakers such as Tony Giordano and Steve Meyer, the event will cover topics ranging from cutting-edge marketing techniques to investment strategies and capital raising.

Designed for agents, investors, and business leaders, the summit offers three learning tracks tailored to different aspects of the industry. Attendees can gain insights into sales pipeline management, property valuation, financing solutions, and investor relations. The event will also feature a post-summit networking happy hour, providing additional opportunities to connect with industry leaders and potential partners.

With an impressive lineup of speakers and a comprehensive agenda, the summit aims to equip real estate professionals with the tools to stay ahead in an evolving market. Registration and sponsorship opportunities remain open for those looking to engage with key decision-makers in the field.

Forging a Nation: The Early Iron Industry of Chester County

UPPER UWCHLAN TWP — On March 24, the Upper Uwchlan Township Historical Commission will present a lecture on the Early Iron Age of Chester County, offering an in-depth look at the region’s early forges and their role in shaping the nation’s economy. Park Ranger Jay Erb will lead the discussion, exploring the people behind the county’s first iron works and the impact of their labor on early American industry.

History Comes to Life at the Chester County Renaissance Faire

MALVERN, PA — The Chester County Renaissance Faire will bring history and fantasy to life on March 29, offering a day filled with performances, historical reenactments, and artisan vendors. The free event welcomes guests of all ages to experience the magic of the Renaissance through live entertainment, including illusionists, fire dancers, and a traveling bard.

In addition to thrilling performances, the faire will feature interactive demonstrations, allowing visitors to engage with Pennsylvania’s colonial past, Viking history, and even an exhibit on medieval insects. Artisans and vendors will showcase handcrafted pottery, Celtic-inspired goods, and specialty foods, while local breweries and meaderies provide refreshments.

Old Caln Historical Society to Host Talk on Chester County’s Barns

THORNDALE, PA — The Old Caln Historical Society invites the public to a special program on the barns of Chester County, showcasing the architectural and historical significance of these rural landmarks. Led by Bob Wise, AIA, the event will offer insights into the craftsmanship, function, and preservation of the county’s barns, many of which have stood for centuries as symbols of the region’s agricultural past.

The free presentation will be followed by a members' meeting, giving attendees an opportunity to learn more about the historical society’s initiatives and how they can get involved. Guests are encouraged to park behind Caln Elementary School to ensure space remains available for the local fire company.

137 WASHINGTON AVE Downingtown ($400,000)

3310 WALNUT ST Downingtown ($375,000)

390 MARY ST Downingtown ($450,000)

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