Pennsylvania, as one of the original 13 colonies where independence was born, has many historic towns that have stood the test of time.

But to find the oldest, you need only look in Delaware County’s backyard, writes Andre DeBonis for EnergyPortal.eu.

Chester was the earliest settlement in Pennsylvania, founded in 1682 by William Penn, who was also the founder of the Pennsylvania Colony.

With a history spanning over three centuries, this historic town played a significant role in shaping Pennsylvania’s early years.

Chester was a major port city, connecting the region to trade and commerce. It was also the county seat for Delaware County. (That role is now assumed by Media Borough.

There are several historic landmarks in Chester among well-preserved colonial-era buildings.

You’ll find the Old Main Post Office and a historic courthouse known as the Chester Courthouse from 1724 to 1789, then the Delaware County Courthouse from 1789 to 1850.

Built in 1724, it is the oldest public building still standing in the United States, according to Wikipedia.

There’s also the Chester Waterside Station of the Philadelphia Electric Company, a former coal-fired power station on the Delaware River.

Find out more about Chester’s place in history in EnergyPortal.edu.