In the Stillness of Winter

Feb 1
4 min read

As winter settles in and the landscape rests beneath the cold, we’re reminded that the work of preservation, stewardship, and community continues quietly, steadily, and with purpose. Even in the stillness of the season, meaningful work continues, guided by those who care deeply for Marshallton’s history, open space, and character. As we begin a new year and look ahead to warmer days, we pause to reflect with gratitude on the leadership and dedication that have helped shape our community and continue to guide us forward.

Bob Portnoy: A Lasting Legacy

Since 2009, Bob Portnoy has been a guiding force behind the Marshallton Conservation Trust. As a founding member, his vision, integrity, and unwavering commitment have helped shape the future of our organization and the village that we proudly serve.

Bob grew up and built his career in New York City, but his devotion to Marshallton has always been clear. As one board member shared, “I have never met anyone who has more love and commitment to our community, its landscape, history, and residents.” Bob’s dedication has shown through in every role he has held, always thinking about the future.

Bob played a key role in the formation of the Marshallton Conservation Trust in 2009, when a group of concerned residents came together to respond to a proposed PennDOT roadway plan that threatened the village’s character, safety, and historic integrity. Through collaboration with PennDOT, West Bradford Township, and planning experts like Tom Comitta, the Marshallton Conservation Trust helped revise the plan into what we see today, protecting its unique sense of place. Bob’s leadership set the standard for our work as thoughtful advocates and trusted stewards.

Over the years, Bob took on many roles:

Founding Member (2009)

Treasurer (2009–2016)

President (2017–2024)

Board Member (2025)

Board Member Emeritus (2026)

Throughout his tenure, Bob kept the Marshallton Conservation Trust focused on the future, while remaining fiscally responsible and deeply mindful of the trust the community placed on the organization. Under his leadership, MCT supported major regional open space projects, including the permanent protection of Tarad Hill and several properties along Northbrook and North Wawaset Roads, helping preserve the open space surrounding Marshallton for future generations.

Bob’s passion for conservation went beyond the Marshallton Conservation Trust. For several years, he also served on the West Bradford Land Preservation and Sustainability Committee. At one point, he served as both the Committee Chair and President of the Marshallton Conservation Trust, a testament to his tireless commitment to the region and its future.

“Preserving the Past, Protecting the Present, and Planning for the Future” is more than just a guiding principle. It reflects Bob’s lasting legacy. His leadership built a strong foundation for our organization, and his influence will continue to guide our work in the years to come.

On behalf of the Board and the entire Marshallton community, thank you, Bob, for your years of service, steady leadership, and deep love for this special place we call home.

6th Annual

Valentine's Day Food Drive

This February, the Marshallton Conservation Trust is once again partnering with The Goddard School in Marshallton to share the love through our annual Valentine’s Day Food Drive, benefiting the West Chester Food Cupboard.

We invite our community to support neighbors in need by donating non-perishable food items and personal care essentials. Donations may be dropped off at the Marshallton United Methodist Church parking lot on February 14th (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and February 15th (1 p.m. to 4 p.m.). For a list of items most needed, please visit our website by clicking the button below.

Those wishing to make a financial contribution may do so directly through the West Chester Food Cupboard by visiting WestChesterFoodCupboard.org and clicking Give Now. Please include the word “Love” in the Special Instructions field so donations can be tracked and shared back with our community.

Thanks to your generosity and the tremendous efforts of The Goddard School, last year’s drive collected 455 pounds of food and staples and raised $1,700 in cash donations. Over the past five years, this community-wide effort has resulted in an incredible 2,792 pounds of food and staples, along with $7,700 in cash and gift cards. That’s the true power of community.

Valentine's Day Food Drive

History Spotlight:

America250PA

As we look ahead to the 250th anniversary of America, the Marshallton Conservation Trust is proud to join communities across the Commonwealth in recognizing the people, places, and stories that shaped our nation’s founding. In the months leading up to this historic milestone, we will be spotlighting programs and events connected to America250PA Chester County in our newsletter and on social media, offering opportunities to reflect on our past, deepen our understanding of local history, and celebrate the enduring values of freedom, stewardship, and community.

Now on display at the West Chester Public Library through March 19, Forged in Freedom: Chester County at 250 is a traveling exhibit that explores the people, industries, and movements that helped shape the county in the years following 1776. This exhibit offers an opportunity to connect local history to the broader American story and to reflect on how preservation, conservation, and civic engagement remain essential to our shared future.

Learn More