On January 23, 2026, community leaders, local officials, residents, and supporters gathered in Wilmington, Delaware to celebrate a significant milestone in the ongoing revitalization of the Peoples Settlement Association (PSA). The beam signing ceremony highlighted the progress of the organization’s historic reconstruction project and honored the legacy and future of this cornerstone community institution.
A Legacy of Community Service
Founded in 1901, the Peoples Settlement Association has been a trusted hub for Wilmington’s East Side for more than a century. Originally established to serve working-class families and early immigrant communities, PSA has continually evolved to meet the needs of its community through comprehensive social services, enrichment programs, and vital support systems.
The organization’s mission remains rooted in improving quality of life and fostering community connection across generations. Current and upcoming offerings include senior programming, intake and referrals for essential services, and future expanded youth and family initiatives once the renovated facility reopens.
The Beam Signing Event
The beam signing ceremony on January 23 was both a symbolic and celebratory moment. Attendees—including community members, elected officials, and PSA supporters—signed a steel beam that will become part of the new structure, marking their collective support and shared investment in PSA’s future.
The event also served as a celebration of life for Arthur Wesley Boswell, Jr., former PSA Executive Director, who dedicated his life and career to the center. It brought together residents of all ages to reflect on the organization’s impact and the renewed energy surrounding its redevelopment. Photos from the event captured smiling faces, heartfelt messages, and signatures that now literally and figuratively underpin the next chapter of Peoples Settlement.
A New Chapter Ahead
PSA’s reconstruction project represents a major reinvestment in Wilmington’s East Side. The redesigned facility will modernize the historic center while honoring its traditions, offering upgraded accessibility, expanded space for programs, a gymnasium, classrooms, and technology resources. This transformation, supported in part by state funding and community partners, will allow PSA to broaden its reach and deepen its impact.
As the organization continues its work, the People’s Settlement beam signing stands as a reminder of both the community’s heritage and its hopes for the future—a future built with pride, partnership, and shared purpose.
Photo Credit: Emir Lake Photography
Thank you to the following community leaders and elected officials who joined us at the PSA beam signing and shared remarks in support of this historic project: PSA Executive Director Sandra Ballard, Wilmington Mayor John Carney, U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester, U.S. Senator Chris Coons, County Executive Marcus Henry, State Senator Darius Brown, State Representative Stephanie Bolden, State Senator Elizabeth Lockman, The Honorable Margaret Rose Henry, The Honorable Harris McDowell, The Honorable James Sills, Carolyn Boswell, Ayana Lewis, and EDiS Operations Manager Mike McBall
Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester
Senator Chris Coons
Wilmington Mayor John Carney
Celebrating the life of Arthur Wesley Boswell, Jr., former PSA Executive Director
