The borough was founded in 1684, when the Lenni-Lenape Indians ceded to William Penn the land along the Perkiomen Creek; it was incorporated in 1903.

The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters.

Washington's headquarters probably was at the Henry Kelly House (demolished), just southwest of the town that he called "Pawling's Mill.

"[6] The bulk of the Army camped on the opposite side of the Perkiomen Creek, at Pennypacker Mills.

The borough was originally part of Perkiomen Township and home to the first copper mine in Pennsylvania.

Mills devoted to grain and textiles were also very prominent which is evident by the existing historic structures.

Schwenksville Elementary School; the Perkiomen Valley Branch of the Montgomery County-Norristown Public Library; the Schwenksville post office; two banks; three churches - Heidelberg United Church of Christ, Jerusalem Lutheran, and Eden Mennonite; and a 6.47-acre park along the Perkiomen Creek are located within the borough.

The Pennypacker Mansion and Sunrise Mill are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Schwenksville has a city manager form of government with a mayor and a five-member borough council.

The Historic Committee was formed by the borough for the purpose of exploring ways to save meaningful older buildings from being destroyed and to keep the rich history of Schwenksville intact for future generations.

It is home to Meadow Park, which has a pavilion and provides a relaxing spot for people to walk and fish in the Creek.