Timeline of Lower Pottsgrove Township & Sanatoga
A Journey Through Our Community’s History
Before 1680: The First Inhabitants
The Lenni Lenape people lived throughout the region for thousands of years, hunting, farming, and traveling along the Schuylkill River long before European settlement.
Early 1700s: European Settlement Begins
German, English, and Welsh settlers established farms throughout what would become Pottsgrove Township. The fertile land and access to waterways made the area ideal for agriculture.
1773: John Potts Establishes His Estate
Ironmaster John Potts developed his estate in the area that became known as Pottsgrove. His influence gave the community its name, which remains today.
1777: Camp Pottsgrove
Following the Battle of Brandywine during the American Revolution, General George Washington’s Continental Army camped in the Pottsgrove area for approximately two weeks before moving toward the Battle of Germantown.
August 20, 1806: Pottsgrove Township is Created
Pottsgrove Township was officially formed from portions of Douglass and New Hanover Townships in Montgomery County.
Mid-1800s: Crooked Hill
The village now known as Sanatoga was originally called Crooked Hill, named for the winding road through the community.
1865: Crooked Hill Sunday School Organized
Residents established a community Sunday School that met in a local schoolhouse, bringing together children from many different Christian denominations.
1890: Crooked Hill Becomes Sanatoga
The village officially adopted the name Sanatoga, and the Sunday School became known as the Sanatoga Union Sunday School.
1890–1891: A Community Builds a Chapel
Samuel J. Kurtz donated the land for the chapel. Local residents donated stone, brick, lumber, labor, and money. Evening “digging matches,” concerts, plays, and lectures helped fund construction.
May 10, 1891: Sanatoga Union Sunday School Dedicated
The chapel officially opened its doors, becoming both a religious center and an important gathering place for the growing community.
1893: Trolley Service Arrives
The Pottstown Passenger Railway connected Pottstown, Sanatoga, and surrounding communities, fueling tourism and growth.
Early 1900s: Sanatoga Park Flourishes
Sanatoga Park became one of southeastern Pennsylvania’s premier amusement destinations, featuring:
- Carousel
- Roller coaster
- Dance pavilion
- Sandy-bottom swimming pool
- Boating
- Concerts
- Picnic grounds
- Restaurant
Thousands of visitors arrived each summer via trolley.
December 2, 1889: Lower Pottsgrove Township Formed
Pottsgrove Township was officially divided into Upper Pottsgrove and Lower Pottsgrove Townships.
1931: Pottstown Annexation
Portions of Lower Pottsgrove Township were annexed by the Borough of Pottstown, prompting future efforts to protect township boundaries.
1939–1958: Sanatoga Speedway
Sanatoga Park became home to the famous Sanatoga Speedway, drawing thousands of spectators for midget and stock car racing.
January 7, 1954: First-Class Township
Lower Pottsgrove officially became a First-Class Township after residents voted to strengthen local government and help prevent additional annexations.
1965: Township Purchases Sanatoga Park
Lower Pottsgrove Township acquired Sanatoga Park, preserving much of the property for recreation and future generations.
September 10, 1985: Historical Society Founded
The Lower Pottsgrove Historical Society was established to preserve the township’s history, collect artifacts, educate the community, and restore historic landmarks.
March 1991: Chapel Becomes Society Headquarters
The Historical Society received the deed to the Sanatoga Union Sunday School and began its long-term restoration efforts, transforming the building into a museum and community landmark.
1991–Present: Restoration Continues
Volunteers have completed numerous preservation projects, including:
- New roof
- Heating system
- Bell tower restoration
- Veterans Memorial restoration
- Masonry repointing
- Fire and security systems
- Grounds improvements
- Interior and exterior restoration
- Construction of the historic trolley replica
These efforts ensure the chapel remains a treasured landmark for future generations.
August 4, 2004: National Register Recognition
The Sanatoga Union Sunday School was added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its architectural and historical significance.
Today: Preserving Our Heritage
The Lower Pottsgrove Historical Society continues to:
- Preserve local history and artifacts
- Maintain the historic Sanatoga Union Sunday School
- Operate a free public museum
- Host educational programs and open houses
- Inspire future generations to appreciate the rich history of Lower Pottsgrove Township.
“Preserving Yesterday • Sharing Today • Inspiring Tomorrow”
