The Square Tavern Signing, Dedication Event Set For May 3

Press release from the Township of Newtown:

The Newtown Township Board of Supervisors is pleased to announce a Ceremonial Signing and Dedication Event for the historic John West House, also known as The Square Tavern, on May 3, 2025 at 10:30 AM. This event will mark the transfer of ownership of the property from Equus Capital Partners to Newtown Township.

Representatives from Equus Capital Partners, The Newtown Square Historical Society and Newtown Township will be present for the signing. The public is invited to attend and learn more about this important cultural property and the Township's future stewardship of it. Media coverage is also welcome.

The Newtown Square Historical Society has activities planned for the day including:

• Live music
• Refreshments
• Tours
• Walks on the trails
• An art exhibit of Carl and Alice Lindborg who co-wrote and edited the Historic Newtown Township Book and were accomplished artists and part of the forming of the historic society.

In 2024, the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors announced that Equus Capital Partners had generously agreed to donate The Square Tavern to the township. This property includes the historic building, surrounding yard, parking lot and trail head. Dating back to 1742, The Square Tavern has been preserved through several renovations by its various owners including ARCO Chemical and most recently, Equus Capital Partners.

In addition to donating the property itself, Equus Capital Partners has also pledged $25,000 for future maintenance of The Square Tavern. During its ownership of the property, Equus has continuously supported the Newtown Township Historical Society by allowing them to use the property free of charge for events such as art shows and monthly open houses. Additionally, the parking lot has been a crucial access point to one of Newtown Township's most popular trails.

This transfer of ownership ensures that not only will this significant historic property be preserved in perpetuity but also that access to one of Newtown's most beloved trails will remain open for generations to come. This transaction aligns with the Board's goal to preserve Newtown Township's history as demonstrated in their Strategic Plan of 2019 and their enactment of a historic preservation ordinance in 2022.

Board Chair Leonard Altieri III stated, "The Board of Supervisors has worked tirelessly to preserve the history of Newtown Township, from enacting ordinances to protect historic structures to partnering with the Newtown Square Historical Society. Recognizing the importance of our township's history fosters a deeper understanding of our community identity. We are grateful to Equus for their continued support and partnership in our efforts."

Equus Capital Partners President and CEO Steve Spaeder added, "Equus is proud to support and promote Newtown Township in its efforts to preserve the rich history of our community. The Square Tavern holds a special place in our township's history as it was operated by Benjamin West's father, John West. We are honored to play a part in preserving this important piece of our township's past."

The Newtown Township Board extends their deepest gratitude to Equus Capital Partners for their continued support and generous donation of The Square Tavern property, land, and cash donation. They also thank the Newtown Square Historical Society for their vital role in promoting and maintaining the township's history.

Cathy Cavalier-Gach, President of the Newtown Square Historical Society, stated, "The Newtown Square Historical Society thanks all those who have preserved, restored and maintained this iconic symbol of Newtown Township's history. We are also grateful to the Board of Supervisors and Steve Spaeder for facilitating the transfer of The Square Tavern property. This acquisition demonstrates Newtown Township's commitment to historic preservation and ensures that our town's history will remain a central part of our strategic plan."

The Board invites all members of the community to join them in celebrating this exciting news as they work towards being stewards of township history.

This press release was produced by the Township of Newtown. The views expressed here are the author’s own.