Publisher’s Letter

County Lines’ February issue is filled with homes, history, schools, birds, fitness and food. We’ve also taken a look at what’s happening in Coatesville.

Our cover article, “Big Bend,” tours the home of the late Frolic Weymouth, known for his extraordinary art, conservation works and revelry. Mac Weymouth, his son, inherited the historic home and guides Emily Hart through its recent stunning renovation by Archer & Buchanan Architecture. In “Big Bend’s Prior Owner — Frolic Weymouth,” Audrey Lewis of the Brandywine Museum of Art shares some of Frolic’s art and development as an artist.

We also visit the Dower House, considered the oldest continuously occupied home in West Chester and located at the intersection of High Street and Goshen Road. In Brandywine Stories, Malcolm Johnstone looks at its history in “The First Home in West Chester.”

West Chester is rightly proud of its efforts to preserve its historic character, reflected in the borough’s architecture and streetscapes. In “Recognizing West Chester’s Historic Treasures,” Jane Dorchester reviews winners of the most recent Preservation Awards — including Franklin Corners, home to County Lines’ office.

In “2024 Real Estate Roundup,” Laurel Anderson asks realtors about the outlook for the coming year. What do they think will happen in the market? Are people still buying and selling? Read their answers.

We all imagine … what if? What if we could move this, rebuild that? For “Dream Kitchens,” we asked local contractors to share their best projects. See what they’ve done. And dream.

A railway station is being rebuilt. Construction of a sports complex has begun. Restaurants, retail … it’s just getting started. In “Coatesville Dreaming,” see what’s in store for Chester County’s only city. I talked to businesses there to learn more.

Choosing a school for your child may be one of the most important parental decisions, writes Shannon Montgomery. In “Choosing the Right Private School for Your Child,” she suggests starting by visiting school open houses. Read on for what the experts say about finding the right fit. And check out our “Guide to Area Private & Independent Schools” by Marci Tomassone.

Scientists are taking a closer look at the many, and surprising, benefits of birding for human health. Beyond the physical exercise, research shows birdwatching can change our brains and improve our mental well-being. Read about it in “Bird Brained” by Kit Werner of Natural Lands.

Looking for something that’s a bit more active? Unfurl your mat and start your Pilates program. In “Pilates 101,” Shannon Montgomery reports what you need to know about this uber-popular form of exercise — the basics, types, benefits and how to get started.

Our Brandywine Table writer, Courtney Diener-Stokes, is thinking of food around the fire: apple fritters, chili, soup, s’mores, maple popcorn. Outside or inside, these recipes will get you warmed up.

As always, we’ve included plenty of ideas for Family Fun and things to do in our Best Local Events section.

At CountyLinesMagazine.com, you can read the February issue’s articles online. And at Issuu.com, you can enjoy the complete digital issue FOR FREE. You can also click Get A Copy on the website to find locations to get a print copy.

We hope you’ll subscribe to County Lines. Do it online or call 610-918-9300. For single issues, try Carlino’s, Kimberton Whole Foods, Janssen’s, Crop’s Fresh Market, Country Butcher, the Well, the Foodery, Harvest Market, Wellington Square Bookshop, Reads & Company, Main Point Books or your local library.

Copies are also available this month at nearly 400 locations. Visiting an advertiser is a great — and free — way to find copies!

Ed Malet, Publisher

610-918-9300

Big Bend

At a large bend in Brandywine Creek, a historic fieldstone house is nestled in a valley between hills and riverbanks. At the end of a long drive, marked by a beautiful brass turtle, step into the home of Mac and Frances Weymouth and their family. Renovated by Archer & Buchanan in 2017 to 2020, the home features an elliptical staircase, a huge library, a grand kitchen, the original (circa 1700s) dining room, a playful carriage maze and many paintings by N.C. Wyeth and his family. In the words of Mac, “Art anchors this house.”

Coatesville Dreaming

The train station is being rebuilt. A sports complex is breaking ground. New restaurants are opening. New retail shops and services are just getting started. Entertainment venues are beginning to book acts. Entrepreneurs are laying stakes. Coatesville, Chester County’s only formal city, after years of slumber and desuetude, is showing signs of life. Consider visiting! And share the rebirth.

Bird Brained

Scientists are looking closely at the benefits of birding for human health. Beyond exercise and fresh air, birdwatching can improve our brains and sense of well-being. One study showed a significant positive effect of seeing and hearing birds. Another found a reduction in feelings of anxiety, depression and paranoia. Yet another showed a correlation between happiness and the number of bird species in people’s neighborhoods. In fact, the proximity of 14 species is worth $150 per month more in income!