Was it William Penn’s arrival that sparked Darby Township’s story? Darby Township in Delaware County Pennsylvania boasts a unique history. Let’s explore its origins its development and what makes it distinct.
Darby Township’s story began shortly after William Penn’s arrival in 1682. By 1683 it was recognized as a place where people had settled. Despite this initial recognition the population remained sparse for over 25 years.
Also in 1682 Darby Friends’ Meeting was established marking the beginning of religious life in the area. The first official record of Darby appears in a list of collectors responsible for gathering assessments to build the court-house. Thomas Worth and Joshua Fearne were appointed for Darby.
Initially Calcoone Hook now part of Darby Township was a separate municipal district. In 1686 Calcoone Hook was incorporated into Darby Township while Amosland was annexed to Ridley. Calcoone Hook derived its name from the Swedish word Kalkon meaning turkey.
For many years the territory now encompassing Upper and Lower Darby operated under a single municipal government. However in 1747 residents decided to separate the upper part from the lower. This division excluded levies made for the poor. Forty years later a petition was presented to the court formalizing the split.
Geographically Darby Township is located at 39.90778 North and 75.28917 West. According to the United States Census Bureau the township has a total area of 1.4 square miles. Of this 1.4 square miles is land and a small portion is water. A distinctive feature of Darby Township is its non-contiguous territories separated by incorporated boroughs.
Darby Township shares borders with nine different municipalities including the City of Philadelphia and Upper Darby Township. As of the 2010 census the population of Darby Township was 9264. The population density was 6617.1 inhabitants per square mile.
In 2020 the racial makeup of the township was diverse. 48.39% were White 43.86% were Black or African American and smaller percentages were Native American Asian and Hispanic or Latino.
The township is governed as a First Class Township. It employs a Council-Manager form of government. The council consists of five commissioners each representing a different ward.
Darby Township is serviced by the Southeast Delco School District. Students attend the Kindergarten Center and Darby Township School for elementary and middle school. For high school students attend Academy Park High School in Sharon Hill Borough. Darby Township also has two public libraries: The Lee Taliaferro Library and the Loretta Touni Library.
Darby Township relies on three volunteer fire companies for protection. These include Briarcliffe Fire Company Goodwill Fire Company and Darby Township Fire Company No 4.
Transportation in Darby Township includes a network of public roads. SEPTA provides bus service via routes 107 113 and 115. These routes connect Darby Township to various destinations including Philadelphia International Airport and the 69th Street Transportation Center.
Darby Township stands as a testament to the early settlements in Pennsylvania. From its establishment after William Penn’s arrival to its unique geographical divisions. Darby Township has evolved into a diverse community with a rich history. Its commitment to education public safety and community services reflects the enduring spirit of its residents.