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If you’re planning a trip to Delaware, you won’t want to miss out on the state’s rich history. Delaware was one of the original 13 colonies and played a significant role in the American Revolution. Today, visitors can explore a variety of must-see historic landmarks in Delaware that offer a glimpse into the state’s past.
One of the must-see historic landmarks is the Old Swedes Historic Site in Wilmington, which dates back to the 1600s. This site is home to Holy Trinity Church, which is the oldest church in the United States still in use for worship. Visitors can take a tour of the church and learn about its history and significance.
Another historic site worth visiting is the Fort Delaware State Park, located on Pea Patch Island in the Delaware River. This fort was used as a prison during the Civil War and housed Confederate soldiers. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and explore the fort, which has been preserved and restored to its original condition.
Delaware Overview
Delaware is a small state in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. It is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and charming small towns. Delaware played a significant role in the American Revolution and the Civil War, and there are many historic landmarks in the state that are worth visiting.
The state is divided into three counties: New Castle, Kent, and Sussex. Each county has its own unique history and attractions. New Castle County is home to Wilmington, the largest city in Delaware, as well as many historic sites, museums, and parks.
Kent County is known for its agricultural heritage and is home to the capital city of Dover. Sussex County is the southernmost county in Delaware and is known for its beaches, resorts, and natural beauty.
Delaware has a rich cultural heritage, with significant contributions from Native American tribes, European settlers, and African Americans. The state’s history is reflected in its architecture, museums, and historic landmarks. Many of these landmarks are open to the public and offer tours, exhibits, and educational programs.
Some of the most popular, must-see historic landmarks in Delaware include the First State National Historical Park, the Hagley Museum, and the Old Swedes Historic Site. The state also has many Civil War forts, Revolutionary War battlefields, and colonial-era buildings that are worth visiting.
Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun day trip, Delaware has something to offer. With its rich history, beautiful beaches, and charming small towns, it is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States.
Historic Landmarks of Wilmington
If you are a history buff, Wilmington is the perfect place for you to explore. The city is home to several historic landmarks that offer a glimpse into its rich past. Here are three must-see historic landmarks in Wilmington that you should not miss.
Grand Opera House
818 N King St, Wilmington, DE 19801
The Grand Opera House is a stunning building that has been an integral part of Wilmington’s cultural scene since it opened in 1871. The building has undergone several renovations over the years, but it still retains its original charm and grandeur.
The Grand Opera House hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, plays, and dance performances. If you are interested in the performing arts, a visit to the Grand Opera House is a must.
Old Swedes Church
606 N Church St, Wilmington, DE 19801
Old Swedes Church, also known as Holy Trinity Church, is one of the oldest churches in the United States. The church was built in 1698 and has been in continuous use ever since. The building is a beautiful example of Swedish colonial architecture and features a graveyard with tombstones dating back to the early 1700s. If you are interested in history or architecture, a visit to Old Swedes Church is a must.
Fort Christina
1110 E 7th St, Wilmington, DE 19801
Fort Christina is a historic site that marks the spot where the first Swedish settlers landed in Delaware in 1638. The site features a replica of the original fort and a museum that explores the history of the Swedish colony in Delaware. If you are interested in early American history, a visit to Fort Christina is a must.
Wilmington is a city with a rich history, and these three historic landmarks are just a few of the many places you can explore to learn more about it. Whether you are interested in the performing arts, architecture, or early American history, there is something for everyone in Wilmington’s historic landmarks.
Historic Landmarks of Dover
If you’re interested in history, then Dover is the place to be. The city is home to many historic landmarks that are worth visiting.
The Old State House
25 The Green, Dover, DE 19901
The Old State House is a beautiful building that was built in 1791. It is considered to be one of the oldest state houses in the United States. The building was used as Delaware’s state capitol until 1933. Today, the Old State House is a museum that showcases Delaware’s history. You can take a guided tour of the building and learn about the state’s past.
The Old State House has many interesting features, including a courtroom, legislative chambers, and a governor’s office. One of the most impressive features is the building’s cupola, which offers a panoramic view of Dover.
John Dickinson Plantation
340 Kitts Hummock Rd, Dover, DE 19901
The John Dickinson Plantation is a historic site that was once owned by John Dickinson, one of America’s founding fathers. Dickinson was a signer of the U.S. Constitution and the Articles of Confederation. He was also known as the “Penman of the Revolution” because of his writings in support of American independence.
The plantation is a great place to learn about Delaware’s agricultural history. The site includes a farm complex with a barn, a smokehouse, and a blacksmith shop. You can take a guided tour of the plantation and learn about the daily life of a colonial farmer.
The John Dickinson Plantation also has a visitor center that features exhibits on Delaware’s colonial history. The center includes interactive displays and artifacts from the plantation’s past.
These two landmarks are just a small sample of the historic sites that Dover has to offer. If you’re interested in history, then you won’t be disappointed by a visit to Dover.
Historic Landmarks of New Castle
If you’re interested in exploring the history of Delaware, New Castle is a must-visit destination. This charming town is home to several historic landmarks, each with its own unique story to tell. Here are two of the most notable landmarks in New Castle.
New Castle Court House Museum
211 Delaware St, New Castle, DE 19720
The New Castle Court House Museum is a must-see attractions for history buffs. This impressive building dates back to the 18th century and served as the center of Delaware’s colonial government. Today, it houses a fascinating museum that explores the state’s legal history and the role that the court system played in shaping Delaware’s past.
Visitors to the New Castle Court House Museum can explore the building’s beautiful architecture and learn about the important events that took place within its walls. The museum’s exhibits include artifacts and documents that shed light on Delaware’s early history, including its role in the American Revolution.
Read House and Gardens
42 The Strand, New Castle, DE 19720
The Read House and Gardens is a historic home that dates back to the 18th century. This beautiful mansion was once the home of the influential Read family, who played an important role in Delaware’s early history. Today, the Read House and Gardens is open to the public as a museum.
Visitors to the Read House and Gardens can explore the mansion’s beautifully preserved rooms and learn about the daily life of the Read family. The museum’s exhibits include a wide range of artifacts and documents that provide insight into Delaware’s colonial past. The gardens surrounding the mansion are also worth exploring, with their beautiful flowers and stunning views of the Delaware River.
New Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Delaware’s rich history. The town’s historic landmarks offer a fascinating glimpse into the state’s past, and are well worth exploring if you’re in the area.
Historic Landmarks of Lewes
Lewes, Delaware, is a charming town that boasts a rich history. It is home to several historic landmarks that are worth a visit.
Zwaanendael Museum
102 Kings Hwy, Lewes, DE 19958
The Zwaanendael Museum is a must-see for history buffs. This museum is designed to look like a Dutch mansion, and it houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Delaware’s early Dutch settlers.
The museum’s exhibits include displays on Delaware’s maritime history, the Lewes area’s Native American heritage, and more. Admission to the museum is free, and it is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Lightship Overfalls
219 Pilottown Rd, Lewes, DE 19958
Another of the must-see historic landmarks in Delaware that you won’t want to miss is the Lightship Overfalls. This historic ship was built in 1938 and served as a floating lighthouse for over 30 years. Today, it is docked in Lewes and is open to the public for tours.
Visitors can climb aboard the ship and explore its decks, cabins, and engine room. The ship is open for tours from May through October, and admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children.
These two historic landmarks are just a taste of what Lewes has to offer. If you’re interested in history, be sure to add them to your must-see list.
Historic Landmarks of Delaware City
Delaware City is home to several historic landmarks that are worth visiting. Here are some of the must-see landmarks in Delaware City.
Fort Delaware State Park
45 Clinton St, Delaware City, DE 19706
Fort Delaware State Park is a historical site that was built in the mid-1800s to protect the ports of Wilmington and Philadelphia. The fort was used as a prison during the Civil War and housed Confederate prisoners of war.
Today, the fort is open to the public and offers guided tours that take visitors through the prison cells, barracks, and other areas of the fort. The park also has picnic areas, hiking trails, and a ferry that takes visitors to Pea Patch Island where the fort is located.
If you’re interested in history, Fort Delaware State Park is a must-visit landmark in Delaware City. The guided tours are informative and provide a glimpse into what life was like during the Civil War.
That’s all for the must-see historic landmarks in Delaware City. If you have time, be sure to visit other historic sites in Delaware such as the First State National Historical Park and Lightship Overfalls.
Final Thoughts on Must-See Historic Landmarks in Delaware
Congratulations! You now have a comprehensive list of some of the most must-see historic landmarks in Delaware. From the First State National Historical Park to the Hagley Museum, these sites offer a glimpse into the state’s rich history and culture.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for an educational day trip, Delaware’s historic landmarks have something to offer everyone. Visit the Fort Delaware State Park to learn about the state’s role in the Civil War, or explore the Nemours Estate to see the opulent lifestyle of one of America’s wealthiest families.
Don’t forget to check out the Delaware History Museum, which features exhibits on the state’s history from its earliest inhabitants to the present day. And if you’re interested in architecture, be sure to visit the Old New Castle Historic District, which features over 500 historic buildings.
Whatever your interests, Delaware’s historic landmarks are sure to leave you with a greater appreciation for the state’s unique history and culture. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the First State’s past.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Must-See Historic Landmarks in Delaware
What are some notable historic landmarks in Delaware?
Delaware is home to many notable historic landmarks, including thirteen National Historic Landmarks. Some of the most famous landmarks in Delaware include Fort Delaware State Park, John Dickinson Plantation, Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, and the Nemours Estate.
What is the significance of Fort Delaware State Park?
Fort Delaware State Park is a Civil War-era fort located on Pea Patch Island in the Delaware River. The fort was built to protect the ports of Wilmington and Philadelphia during the war. Today, visitors can tour the fort and learn about its history as a prison camp for Confederate soldiers.
What can visitors expect to see at John Dickinson Plantation?
The John Dickinson Plantation is a historic site that was once the home of John Dickinson, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. Visitors can tour the plantation and learn about Dickinson’s life and legacy, as well as the history of Delaware during the colonial period.
Are there any Revolutionary War sites to visit in Delaware?
Yes, there are several Revolutionary War sites to visit in Delaware, including the New Castle Court House Museum, the Old State House, and the Cooch’s Bridge Battlefield. These sites offer visitors a glimpse into the history of Delaware during the Revolutionary War.
What interesting facts can be learned about Delaware’s history?
Delaware has a rich and diverse history, and there are many interesting facts to be learned about the state’s past. For example, Delaware was the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, and it played an important role in the Underground Railroad. Additionally, Delaware was once known as the “Peach State” due to its thriving peach industry.
What is the most famous landmark in Delaware besides the Delaware River?
While the Delaware River is certainly a famous landmark in Delaware, there are many other notable landmarks in the state. One of the most famous is the DuPont Building in Wilmington, which was once the headquarters of the DuPont Company. Other notable landmarks include the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, the Cape Henlopen Lighthouse, and the Indian River Inlet Bridge.
