Chester County was one of the three original counties created by William Penn in 1682. Its name is derived from Chesire (i.e. Chester-shire), England, from which many of its early settlers came. West Chester, the county seat, was named for Chester, the original county seat, which is now in Delaware County.

There's no place quite like it for a getaway. Chester County, a significant part of the Brandywine Valley, carefully guards the heritage of its open space, old houses, cherished landmarks and giant sycamores. Travelers who have been to many different parts of the United States say they'll put this countryside against anything they have seen.

One thing that strikes visitors about this small river valley is the abundance of quaint villages and hamlets dating back to the 1700's that are still intact. Another is how narrow asphalt roads remain the rule for motorists searching for timeless treasures. Many comment how they get the feeling that this is a special valley, nurtured with great caring of a rural landscape.

Chester County is a great place in which to get lost. Mile after mile of rolling hills, etched by stream-filled valleys and woodlands; horse farms, covered bridges, and beautiful wildflowers. This is a very special valley. Here we are still able to see with the eye of an artist, listen with the ear of the poet --grasping the special magic which has drawn so many to this place where art, history and culture flourish.