In 1715, the Crooked Billet Inn was built by John Dawson in what is now known as Hatboro Township. It was a farming village that boasted one of the first rural libraries in Pennsylvania, the Union Library Company. The town put great emphasis on education and built the Loller Academy in 1811. Originally a private school, it became the public school for the village in 1848. As of 2011, the building still stands and is currently used as Borough Administrative Offices and Montgomery County District Court.
Hatboro is also known for its role in the Revolutionary War. The Battle of Crooked Billett took place there in 1778 while Philadelphia was occupied by the British. "The militia, commanded by General John Lacey and assigned to cut off British supplies, was encamped here. Surprised by British troops, they were defeated and driven off with heavy losses."
Bibliography:
Greater Hatboro Chamber of Commerce. "Hatboro History." Accessed October 24, 2011. http://www.hatboro-pa.com/hathist.htm.
From the guide to the Millbrook Society map and atlas collection, 1916-1992, (Millbrook Society)
