Phoenixville's Annual Dogwood tradition dates back to May 1943, when Retired Army Major General Edward C. Shannon, dedicated a dogwood tree in Reeves Park, as a memorial to the men and woman of the Armed Forces, many of whom had died in active service during World War II.

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The very first Dogwood Queen was 1943 Phoenixville High School graduate Regina Glowacki, who was elected by her fellow students through the sale of War Bonds and War Stamps which netted a total of $18,154.85.

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Throughout the years, the Dogwood Queen program has been adapted a number of times to meet the needs of the community and interests of the youth. Today, the Dogwood Royalty program is a gender-inclusive program that celebrates youth for their community service efforts.