Haverford History
The history of Haverford, Pennsylvania, reflects its roots as part of the Welsh Tract, a significant land grant dating back to the 17th century, and its evolution into a suburban community.
Haverford Township, which includes Haverford, was laid out by William Penn as part of the Welsh Tract or Barony. In 1681, Welsh Quakers met with Penn to discuss their settlement after purchasing forty thousand acres of land, which today includes Haverford, Radnor, and Lower Merion Townships. The first families arrived in the area in 1682. The township’s original name, “Harford,” is a Welsh contraction of Haverford.
For much of its early history, Haverford Township was primarily an agricultural area. By 1860, the census recorded significant agricultural production, including livestock, grain harvesting, and orchard and garden produce.
Haverford’s industrial history began with mills along Cobbs Creek and Darby Creek. Haverford Mill, one of the first mills in Pennsylvania, was built in 1688 on Cobb’s Creek. In the early 19th century, Daniel Humphreys purchased property in the township and built a sawmill and fulling and dyeing mill, which later became Castle Hill Mills. Other mills, including grist and sawmills, were constructed on Cobb’s Creek by Peter Brown and Jonathan Miller. Israel Whelen Sr. established the Nitre Hall Powder Mills on Cobb’s Creek, which were operational by 1810 and became the second largest powder mills in the U.S. at the time.
In the 19th century, Dennis Kelly expanded the industrial base of the township with the formation of Clinton Mills and Cedar Grove Mill. These mills provided material for the U.S. government and were a significant part of the local economy until the advent of improved transportation, which opened the township to further development.
The transformation of Haverford Township from an agricultural community to a suburban area began after the turn of the 20th century. Rail lines ran from Upper Darby outward to various destinations, facilitating the creation of planned suburban communities. The area now known as “Havertown” encompasses several of these communities.
Landmarks
Haverford is home to multiple historic sites. The Haverford Township Historical Society has worked to keep the history of the area accessible to residents and visitors. They saved and restored historical locations such as the Lawrence Cabin, now located in Powder Mill Valley Park. They also run public programs at Nitre Hall and the Federal School.
Notable People from Haverford
Haverford has been home to some famous personalities over the years. Author, financial guru, and founder of The Vanguard Group, John C. Bogle has resided in Haverford, as well as others, including, former All-Star basketball player for the Orlando Magic Jameer Nelson, and German-born-neurologist Frederic Lewy, who discovered Lewy bodies.
