Our History.

At the Yearly Meeting, held in Philadelphia, a tall Friend wearing a plain bonnet rose in the gallery and in the impressive manner characteristic of her, expressed a concern for "Homes" for persons of limited means and for others needing care and congenial companionship in their declining years.

Quaker philanthropist Anna T. Jeanes, donates $200,000 to support the establishment of “Boarding Homes for the Aged and Infirm Friends and those in sympathy with us.”

Friends Boarding Home opened in a home owned by Dr. Lettie Smith. Its first boarders were Mary Simpson, Annie B. Knowles, and Dr. Smith.

Ground breaking for Paxson Hall, Friends Village’s historic property in Newtown Borough.

Paxson Hall opens “where aged Friends and those in sympathy with them who desire to be relieved of the care of homemaking or who by reasons of circumstances are deprived of so doing may enjoy all comforts of a congenial and quiet life.”

Independent Living cottages built behind Paxson Hall.

Quaker and behavioral psychologist Dr. M. Powell Lawton is among the first to recognize a need for unique living spaces designed to accommodate the elderly.

Quakers in the Philadelphia area establish some of the first Continuing Care Communities in the country (now known as Life Plan Communities).

Quakers Darlington and Helen Styer donate their home and surrounding property on Lower Dolington Road to develop an independent, intentional community affiliated with the historic boarding home.

Friends Village opens on Lower Dolington Road.

Recognizing emerging research about flourishing in later life, Friends Village shifts its focus to purpose, community and wellness.