Historic Research

The Planning Department has many resources to help municipalities and residents research their history.

Understanding historic resources are the first step to preserving them. The Planning Department can help you find out more about a specific historic resource or resources in your community.

The Planning Department has extensive files on historic resources and maintains a database on the potential archaeologically sensitive areas in the County. The Planning Department houses several municipal historic resource surveys, which are described in more detail on our Historic Resource Survey page. The Department houses a collection of several historic maps.

We’re happy to help you get started on researching the history of your community. For additional help researching Delaware County’s historic resources, contact the Planning Department at 610-891-5200 or Planning_Department@co.delaware.pa.us.

Other Research Resources

In addition to resources the Planning Department hosts, there are also several outside resources that are regularly helpful in finding out about historic resources. The Planning Department can assist you in researching using the following tools. They are provided here for a reference, but please contact the Planning Department at 610-891-5200 or Planning_Department@co.delaware.pa.us with any questions.

PA-SHARE: Pennsylvania’s Historic & Archaeological Resource Exchange

Provides a searchable database for landmarks, properties, and sites throughout Pennsylvania that are listed in the National Register of Historic Places and other archaeological and historic sites stored in the files of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.

Delaware County Archives

Makes County records available through online indexes and provides information on doing research at the Archives.

Delaware County Heritage Commission

Coordinates and promotes the cultural heritage of Delaware County.


Delaware County Historical Society

Collects, protects, and preserves the history of Delaware County, PA, making it accessible to all by providing strong educational outreach. The three pillars of DCHS are the Museum Gallery, Research Library and Children’s Education Center, as well as providing programming on local history and promoting historical preservation.

Delaware County History Website

Offers information for historical research by municipality: tax and census records, historical maps, and photos. Managed by historian Keith Lockhart.

National Trust for Historic Preservation

Provides national leadership, education, and advocacy to save America’s diverse historic places and revitalize our communities.

Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission

Administers all aspects of the Commonwealth’s history, from maintaining collections, advocating and assisting in preservation, to providing interpretation for its many historical sites.

Preservation Pennsylvania

Assists PA communities protect and utilize historic resources through education and advisory assistance.

The Philadelphia Architects and Buildings Project

Offers information and historic status for many buildings and architects throughout the region.