Thomas Willcox, a pioneer in this area's industrial and religious development, built a paper mill here on the West Branch of Chester Creek in 1729. It became a major supplier to Benjamin Franklin's print shop; by 1776 it was supplying paper for the currency of the colonies and Continental Congress, and it was operated by Willcox's descendants until 1866. An early Catholic mission was established on the property.

Photo: Don Morfe

Photo: Don Morfe

Photo: Don Morfe