Donation

Become a Friend of the Tredyffrin Heritage Center

Near your neighborhood stands the Historic Duportail House, now the centerpiece of the emerging Tredyffrin Heritage Center. Built before 1740 and with strong ties to our nation’s history, Duportail House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This remarkable property—where General Louis Duportail planned Valley Forge’s defenses during the winter of 1777-78—is being transformed into a vital heritage destination as America approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026.

The Tredyffrin Heritage Center hosts historical and educational activities and serves as a venue for social and business events as a means of generating revenue to cover its basic operating costs. Preserved and restored for the community by the Fox Companies, the developer of Chesterbrook, Duportail House has operated as a not-for-profit organization and has been self-sustaining since its original restoration in 1984.

Today, we’re building on this foundation to create a comprehensive heritage center that will include interpretive signage, digital exhibits, and connections to the Chester Valley Trail and the broader Patriots Trail network. The property features not only the historic house but also Pennsylvania’s oldest signed bank barn (1792), offering visitors an authentic glimpse into Revolutionary War-era life.

Significant improvements have been made to the property over the past few years; however, the property needs constant maintenance and we rely on the community to help. If it is to survive physically and financially, the Tredyffrin Heritage Center needs the support of the entire Chesterbrook community, both residential and corporate.

As a lifelong area resident and businessman, I have been honored to serve on the Duportail House Board of Directors for over 10 years as its President. Throughout this decade of service, I have been continually impressed by the commitment and support of my fellow board members and of a dedicated local group – Friends of the Tredyffrin Heritage Center. This letter invites you to join that group and help us continue to preserve, protect, and improve this magnificent building as we prepare for America’s semiquincentennial celebration.

As a Friend of the Tredyffrin Heritage Center you will have the satisfaction of knowing you are helping to sustain a significant local and National Historic Landmark at a crucial moment in its history.

For as little as $50, you can become a Friend of the Tredyffrin Heritage Center, joining with others in this community who value and support this unique and special place. I thank you sincerely for your consideration and for your support.

Warmest Regards,

C. Richard Downes,
President Duportail House, Inc