About

The lands of Goshen were purchased in 1681 from William Penn as part of the Welsh tract of Westtown. By 1704, Goshen and Westtown had become separate townships. In 1788, the formation of the Borough of West Chester reduced the size of Goshen. Finally, in 1817, the Township divided into East and West Goshen Townships. At the time of the 1820 census, West Goshen's population numbered 757. West Goshen was primarily a farming community in its early history. Before long, many different businesses began to appear, including several women-owned enterprises. Trades such as cabinet-making, tailoring, weaving, clock-making, and wool-making characterized the area, The completion of railroads in the 1830's and 1850's facilitated the delivery of goods and services to the Township, and marked the migration of many Philadelphians seeking country residece.By 1930, West Goshen's population had risen to 1,958. The farming community had grown into a suburban neighborhood. In 1950, the population was 3,500. The Township experienced its most explosive growth during the 1960's and 1970's, and today can boast over 20,000 residents and a balanced mix of residential, business, office, retail, and industrial uses.