Biographical Sketch Ð Jane L. S. Davidson

Jane L. S. Davidson, historian, preservationist, genealogist, author and artist received her degree from Millersville University in English, Library Science and Social Studies. After graduation she established school libraries at Quarryville and Garnet Valley High Schools in Delaware County before moving to Downingtown in 1965. Thereafter she began teaching local history research and genealogy in workshops, continuing education programs and at West Chester University. She was appointed to the Downingtown Historic Commission in 1975 and the following year wrote and illustrated a book entitled "Christian Schmucker, a Colonial Pennsylvania Farmer." She served as historian and preservationist for the Borough of Downingtown from 1977 to 1980 and during this period wrote a book entitled "A History of Downingtown." In 1982 Ms. Davidson was appointed County Historic Preservation Officer, a position she held for over 10 years, and created numerous municipal Historic Commissions and two National Historic Districts. In 1992, President George Bush appointed her to the National Advisory Council on Historic Preservation for a two-year term. Currently Ms. Davidson is Heritage Preservation Coordinator in the Chester County Parks and Recreation Department and continues to be active in a number of local, state and federal organizations.

Presentation Summary