Cheyney, Pennsylvania may be a small town, but it is rich in history and has witnessed several significant events that have shaped the area and the nation as a whole. Here are seven historical events that have taken place near Cheyney, PA:

1. Cheyney University Founding (1837):
Cheyney University, the oldest historically black college in the United States, was founded in 1837. Originally known as the African Institute, it aimed to provide higher education opportunities for African Americans, who were denied access to most educational institutions at that time. The university has since played a pivotal role in promoting education and civil rights.

2. Underground Railroad (19th century):
Cheyney is located near the birthplace of the Underground Railroad movement. With its close proximity to Philadelphia, a major hub in the abolitionist movement, Cheyney became a key stop on the network of safe houses and secret routes used to help enslaved African Americans escape to freedom in the North.

3. John Brown's Raid (1859):
While not directly occurring in Cheyney, John Brown's Raid on Harpers Ferry had a tremendous impact on the surrounding region. Brown, an abolitionist, led an armed attack on a federal arsenal in Virginia with the goal of starting a slave rebellion. Brown's actions heightened tensions between the North and South, eventually leading to the American Civil War.

4. The Great Migration (early 20th century):
During the early 1900s, many African Americans from the South moved north in what is commonly referred to as the Great Migration. This mass movement of people seeking better opportunities and escaping racial discrimination had a significant impact on the development of the entire region, including Cheyney, as new communities were established.

5. Civil Rights Movement:
Cheyney University's central location near Philadelphia played a crucial role during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s. Many civil rights leaders, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., visited the area and spoke at various events. The university was an important site for organizing protests and raising awareness about racial inequality.

6. Desegregation of Public Schools:
In the 1960s, the desegregation of public schools became a nationwide issue. In Cheyney, neighboring school districts faced significant challenges as they slowly integrated their schools under legal pressures. These struggles were part of a broader movement towards equality in education and helped shape the development of inclusive schools.

7. Preservation of Historic Buildings:
Cheyney and its surrounding areas have made significant efforts to preserve and restore historic buildings. These sites provide a glimpse into the past and serve as reminders of the area's rich history. The Grubb Family Farm and Cheyney Log Barn are just two examples of preserved landmarks in the region.

These historical events, ranging from the establishment of Cheyney University to the struggles of the Civil Rights Movement, have shaped the development of Cheyney, Pennsylvania and its surrounding areas. Today, their legacies continue to inspire and remind current and future generations of the importance of education, equality, and preserving history.