This image is the cover for the book Chester, Postcard History Series

Chester, Postcard History Series

Postcard images from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century show historic scenes of the first city established in Pennsylvania.


From the late 19th century until the mid-20th century, Chester was a bustling hub of industry, historic sites, tourist attractions, and entertainment. The first city established in Pennsylvania, Chester was famous for its many mills. The area was also home to a major shipbuilding center, the Sun Ship Corporation, as well as other industries, including the Chester Brewery and Blue Naphtha brand soap. The postcards in Chester showcase historic scenes of the city and highlight the long history of this dynamic community.

Chester Historical Preservation Committee

For the last 24 years, the Chester Historical Preservation Committee has worked to preserve historic sites and landmarks, including embarking on the restoration of a pre-World War I trolley car that once ran between Chester and Wilmington, Delaware. The committee showcases the area's many historic homes and mansions during the holiday season and holds monthly meetings at the Chester Friends Meeting House to share the city's history with others.

Arcadia Publishing