When the Westtown-Brandywine Historical Society learned of the decision to sell the Darlington/Westtown Inn, a shared sense of urgency compelled us to act.

The Darlington Inn is more than just a 203-year-old building; it is a tangible link to more than two centuries of Westtown’s history. Situated at the corner of Routes 202 and 926, it has served as an inn for cattle drovers and travelers, a political gathering place, part of a working farm, and, most recently, a private residence. Its architecture and prominent location along two historic roads make it an important and recognizable part of Westtown’s historic landscape.

Unfortunately, without a historic preservation easement protecting its exterior, the Darlington Inn could be demolished or altered in ways that permanently erase its historic character. The exterior features of a historic building are among the most visible and enduring expressions of its history and architecture. By placing a preservation easement on the Darlington Inn before it is sold, the Township can establish permanent protections for the building’s historic exterior while still allowing the property to pass into private ownership and continue to be used and enjoyed. While such an easement may affect the property's sale price, we believe preserving this irreplaceable piece of Westtown's history is an important public benefit that should be considered alongside the financial return from its sale.

Therefore, we urge the Westtown Township Board of Supervisors to take swift action and place a historic preservation easement protecting the exterior of the Darlington Inn.

We sign this petition because once this tangible piece of Westtown’s history is lost, it cannot be replaced. By protecting the Inn today, we ensure this important landmark remains part of Westtown’s story for generations to come.