New London Crossroads

In 1729, Lazarus Finney was granted a license to operate a tavern at the New London Crossroads (modern-day State Road & Rt. 896). Similar taverns and crossroads were vital to the early commercial success of Chester County. Chester County thrived on wheat production which was turned into flour at the many gristmills along the Elk River, White & Red Clay Creeks, and the Brandywine. Check out our very first video which discusses the history of this particular tavern, the importance of wheat production in Chester County, and the global mercantile system which necessitated such taverns, crossroads, and gristmills. The records at the Chester County Archives provide a nice glimpse into the county’s early history!