Good to Know / May 2018
Just a few things we'd thought you'd like to know this month
Yearning for a breath of fresh air and vistas of spring flowers? Visit Stoneleigh, Villanova’s newest public garden, at its grand opening on May 13th. Natural Lands, a land conservation nonprofit, took over stewardship of the property from the Haas family to share the park-like setting with the community. Boasting over a mile of paved garden pathways and a gracious Tudor revivalist mansion, Stoneleigh is an oasis of tranquility on the Main Line. StoneleighGarden.org.
Break out your bike and push the pedals towards a good cause—The Cinco de Mayo Benefit Bike Ride and Walk in Exton. This festive event features three different rides for beginners to experts, followed by a Cinco de Mayo music and food fiesta. Proceeds benefit the PA Center for Adapted Sports (PCAS), a local nonprofit that runs sport programs to improve the health and well-being of people with disabilities. On May 5th, all abilities are invited to join the party! Register at CincoDeMayoRide.org.
A Chester County equestrian icon has jumped onto the big screen. Goodnight Ladies—a documentary about the life adventures of Nancy Penn Smith Hannum—won a WINNIE award at the Equus Film Festival for best of Equestrian History, along with other awards. Hannum was a passionate Master of Fox Hounds who rode and hunted in Chester County for more than a half century. Her granddaughter, Christiana, made the film in honor of this fearless role model and to share her story with the world. Watch the trailer on YouTube.
Think your house is old? Well, the first ever real estate deed in the original Chester County was signed 330 years ago on March 10, 1688. Given the county’s Quaker history, the deed is, not surprisingly, for a Quaker meetinghouse, now located in Chester, PA. This deed—and maybe some of your own house’s history—can be viewed at the Chester County Archives. Visit at 601 Westtown Rd., West Chester. ChesCo.org.
The William Brinton 1704 House and Historic Site, a National Historic Landmark near West Chester, is now open. Local architect John Milner oversaw the restoration to the house’s medieval English style. Immerse yourself in early Colonial times in one of the oldest and best restored historic homes in America. See authentic period furniture, leaded-casement windows and an indoor bake oven. Learn about our area’s Quaker history, by-gone lifestyle and genealogy through tours, guides, games and more. Tours on weekends, 1 to 5, May through October, or by appointment. 21 Oakland Rd., West Chester. BrintonFamily.org.
