Tinicum Township

Whispers of “Tinnachkonck,” the “next to water,” still echo through Tinicum Township. This land, nestled along the Delaware River, holds tales as deep and winding as the Darby Creek itself. Tinicum Township wasn’t always the bustling hub it is today. Long before the roar of planes from Philadelphia International Airport, the Lenni-Lenape, the “original people,” called this place home. Their presence lingers in the very name of Tinicum. In 1643, a new chapter began. Johan Printz, whose stern gaze graces the Township seal, arrived with the Swedes. Tinicum Township became the capital of New Sweden. Printz, the imposing governor, ruled for a decade. His legacy, along with the stories of the Lenni-Lenape, is woven into the fabric of this land. Did you know that Tinicum Township housed one of the world’s first quarantine stations? The Lazaretto, as it was known, was built in 1801. This imposing structure served as a vital line of defense against contagious diseases. Ships arriving from distant shores were meticulously inspected here. The sick were quarantined, while the healthy continued their journeys. This critical role earned Tinicum Township a place in medical history. The Lazaretto’s story doesn’t end there. It later became the Philadelphia Seaplane Base, marking another chapter in Tinicum’s rich history. From quarantine station to aviation hub, the Lazaretto stands as a testament to Tinicum Township’s adaptability. Today, Tinicum Township is a blend of old and new. From its industrial past with Westinghouse Electric and Lester Piano Works to its current role as a gateway to Philadelphia, Tinicum Township continues to evolve. But amidst the modern developments, whispers of “Tinnachkonck” still remind us of the “original people” and the enduring spirit of this unique place.