West Chester Celebrates 225th Birthday With Historic Parade

WC Mayor Lillian DeBaptisteWest Chester Mayor Lillian DeBaptiste climbed into a classic car after welcoming visitors to the Borough of West Chester's 225th Birthday Parade, title sponsored by Benchmark Federal Credit Union. /Submitted Images/UGC

WEST CHESTER, PA — The Borough of West Chester says well over 5,000 people attended last Sunday’s 225th Birthday Parade, title sponsored by Benchmark Federal Credit Union to celebrate the borough’s 225th anniversary.

The celebration began with an opening ceremony at Old Glory, where Lillian L. DeBaptiste, Mayor of West Chester Borough, welcomed the community and kicked off a colorful parade at 1 p.m. of 60 floats, decorated vehicles, classic cars, marching bands and community organizations. The parade was led by First West Chester Fire Company, which is also celebrating its 225th birthday this year.

Rustin High School Band
Rustin High School Marching Band was among those performing at the Borough of West Chester’s 225th Birthday Parade.

“It was really a remarkable day, filled with long-time residents as well as visitors, as we gathered to honor West Chester’s rich history, vibrant community and bright future together,” said Keith Kurowski, Director of the Borough of West Chester Parks and Recreation.

Daniel J. Machon, Jr., President and CEO of the parade’s title sponsor Benchmark Federal Credit Union, said, “This is just the beginning of a year of celebrations in West Chester, and we are thrilled to help honor West Chester’s past — as well as its thriving future — with the community we serve.”

1st West Chester Fire Company
First West Chester Fire Company led the parade, also celebrating its 225th anniversary.

The parade was organized by the Borough of West Chester Parks and Recreation with deep appreciation for the parade’s dozens of volunteers.

West Chester was incorporated in 1799. 225 years later, its historic streets are filled with more than 75 restaurants and 65 boutiques with a growing population of nearly 20,000 people.

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