News Release from the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs

For Immediate Release

Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs to sponsor eight free programs during January 2018

(DOVER, Del.—Dec. 20, 2017)—The five museums of the State of Delaware will be sponsoring eight special events during the month of January 2018. A full schedule is included below. All programs are free and open to the public.

E. R. Johnson’s yacht The Caroline will be highlighted during Johnson Victrola Museum tours on Jan. 6, 2018.

Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs special programs, January 2018

Monday, Jan. 1, 2018

New Year’s Day. All museums of the State of Delaware (the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum,The Old State Houseand the Zwaanendael Museum) will be closed. 302-744-5054.

Saturday, Jan. 6, 2018

“The Caroline.” Guided tours highlight Eldridge Reeves Johnson’s beloved yacht The Caroline including a song written and recorded about the vessel played on authentic Victor Talking Machines. First Saturday in the First State program. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3262.

Saturday, Jan. 6, 2018

“Our Delegates.” Guided tours examine Delaware’s delegates to the Second Continental Congress which adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. First Saturday in the First State program. The Old State House,25 The Green, Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Friday, Jan. 12, 2018

Concert by Sol Knopf. Folk music. Presented in partnership with theDelaware Friends of Folkand theFirst State Heritage Park. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. 7:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Saturday, Jan. 13, 2018

“Stories of African-American History From St. Jones Neck.” Workshop utilizes primary-source materials including manumission documents, bills of sales and family information to illustrate the lives of free and enslaved African-Americans who lived on the John Dickinson Plantation. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 10 a.m.–Noon. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, Jan. 13, 2018

“Buccaneers in the Bay.” Lecture by historic-site interpreter Kaitlyn Dykes on the pirates of Lewes, Del. Part three of “Global to Local: International Events and the First State,” a five-part series exploring how world events impacted Delaware’s history. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes.Program at 2 p.m. on the museum’s 2nd floor (entry via staircase; no elevator). Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations for the lecture are required by calling 302-645-1148 no later than Jan. 12, 2018.

Monday, Jan. 15, 2018

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The following museums of the State of Delaware will be open: The Johnson Victrola Museum and The Old State House, open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. The following museums will be closed: The John Dickinson Plantation, the New Castle Court House Museum and theZwaanendael Museum). 302-744-5054.

Monday, Jan. 15, 2018

“Courage and Freedom.” In commemoration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, guided tours will focus on three compelling stories of courageous Delawareans whose fight for freedom and equality began at The Old State House. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Monday, Jan. 15, 2018

“The Struggle.” In commemoration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, guidedtours focus on African-American vocalists and Civil Rights activists Paul Robeson and Marian Anderson, accompanied by 78-rpm recordings of those artists played on authentic Victor Talking Machines. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3262.

Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2018

Delaware State Review Board for Historic Preservation meeting. Agenda TBA. The Delaware Room, Delaware Public Archives, 121 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Dover. 10 a.m.–Noon. 302-736-7417.

Exhibits and displays, January 2018
In addition to special programming, the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is sponsoring the following exhibits and displays. Admission is free and open to the public:

Ongoing

“Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past.” Display explores the DeBraak, a shipwrecked 18th-century British warship, including a photo of the hull recovery, reproductions of items aboard ship and a model of the vessel. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Ongoing

“Drawing America to Victory: The Persuasive Power of the Arts in World War I.” Online exhibit revolves around 27 World War I posters from the collections of the State of Delaware.

Ongoing

“Five Stories.” Display explores the varied lives of people who lived on the plantation including Dickinson family members, tenant farmers, tradesmen, free blacks, indentured servants and enslaved individuals. John Dickinson PlantationWelcome Center, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Oct. 1–March 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. April 1–Sept. 30: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Ongoing

“Letters From a Farmer in Pennsylvania.” Online exhibit explores the life of Founding Father John Dickinson on the 250th anniversary of the publication of his essays that described Colonial American grievances with the British government.

Ongoing

“New Castle: Three Forts, One Community.” Exhibit examines the 17th-century struggle for control of New Castle by the Dutch, Swedes and English, and the strongholds that they built to maintain their power. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-323-4453.

Ongoing

“The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016.” Display explores preservation work that has been conducted since Delaware’s first state capitol building was restored to its original appearance in 1976. From the collections of the State of Delaware. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Mon.–Sat., 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Ongoing

“Rose Color to Gold to Glowing Red: Orville and Ethel Peets in Paris 1913-1914.”Exhibit featuring paintings and painting materials used by the noted Delaware artists Orville Houghton Peets and Ethel Canby Peets. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Ongoing

Sculpture by Charles Parks. Display of works by the noted Wilmington artist featuring historical and political figures including a Minute Man, and presidents Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford and George W. Bush. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-323-4453.

Ongoing

“A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World.” Exhibit utilizes artifacts recovered from His Majesty’s Sloop of War DeBraak, a British warship that sank off the Delaware coast on May 25, 1798, to tell the story of the vessel, its crew and the historical context within which it operated in the Atlantic World of the late 18th century. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Ongoing

“Simple Machines.” Exhibit demonstrating the six “simple machines”—incline ramp, screw, wedge, pulley, lever and wheel—that constitute the elementary building blocks of which many more-complicated machines are composed. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Oct. 1–March 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. April 1–Sept. 30: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Administered by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the five museums of the State of Delaware—the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State House and the Zwaanendael Museum—tell the story of the First State’s contributions to the history and culture of the United States. Through tours, exhibits, school programs and hands-on activities, the museums shine a spotlight on Delaware’s unique history and the diverse people who came to live there. The museums are accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. The New Castle Court House Museum and the John Dickinson Plantation are partner sites of theFirst State National Historical Park. The Old State House is located on the Dover Green, another partner site of the park.

Go to the following for a comprehensive, long-term calendar of division-sponsored events.

The Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is an agency of the State of Delaware. The division enhances Delaware’s quality of life by preserving the state’s unique historical heritage, fostering community stability and economic vitality and providing educational programs and assistance to the general public on Delaware history and heritage. The division’s diverse array of services includes operation of five museums which are accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, administration of the State Historic Preservation Office, conservation of the state’s archaeological and historic-objects collections, operation of a conference center and management of historic properties across the state. Primary funding for division programs and services is provided by annual appropriations from the Delaware General Assembly and grants from the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, a federal agency. However, the contents and opinions expressed in the division’s programs and services do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Department of the Interior.

News Release from the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs

For Immediate Release

Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs to sponsor 21 special programs during the 2017 winter-holiday season

(DOVER, Del.—Nov. 17, 2017)—The Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs will be sponsoring 21special events, including nine winter-holiday-themed activities, between Nov. 25, 2017 and Dec. 23, 2017. A full schedule is included below. Except where otherwise indicated, all programs are free and open to the public.

The John Dickinson Plantation will be offering four “Handmade for the Holidays” programs during the 2017 winter-holiday season.

                Saturday, Nov. 25, 2017

“Handmade for the Holidays.” Seasonal program in which visitors can create a sachet with herbs and spices. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Thursday, Nov. 30, 2017

“Hospitality Night—Victorian Yule-Tide Celebration.” Holiday-themed program in which the museum will be decorated for the season by the Sussex Gardeners including luminarias lighting the entrance walkway. Activities will include historical interpreters, demonstrations, music and seasonal refreshments. Presented in partnership with the Lewes Chamber of Commerce. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. 5–8 p.m.302-645-1148.

Friday, Dec. 1, 2017

Concert by the Honey Badgers. Folk music duo. Presented in partnership with the Delaware Friends of Folk and the First State Heritage Park. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. 7:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 2017

“Delaware’s State Constitution.” Guided tours explore the Delaware State Constitution of 1792 which changed the Delaware State to the State of Delaware. First Saturday in the First State program. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 2017

2017 Holiday Open House at Woodburn: The Governor’s Residence. The home of Delaware’s governor will be decorated for the holidays and open for guided tours. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Woodburn: The Governor’s Residence, 151 Kings Highway S.W., Dover. 302-739-5656.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 2017

“Tour Zwaanendael Museum.” Enjoy the museum’s festive holiday-décor created by the Sussex Gardeners. Event held in conjunction with the Lewes Historical Society’s Christmas Tour of Lewes. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 2017

“Johnson Victrola Museum’s 50th Anniversary Celebration: A Country Tale.” Program, “Play That Old-Time Country Music,” explores Victor Records’ early recordings of country music, accompanied by 78-rpm records played on authentic Victor Talking Machines. Part of a series celebrating the museum’s creation in 1967. First Saturday in the First State program. Johnson Victrola Museum,375 S. New St., Dover. Programs at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. in the museum’s 2nd floor gallery (entry via staircase; no elevator). Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required for the programs by calling 302-739-3262.

Displays in the Johnson Victrola Museum

Saturday, Dec. 2, 2017

“Handmade for the Holidays.” Seasonal program in which visitors can design a tile for the holidays. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Thursday–Saturday, Dec. 7–9, 2017

“Fully, Freely and Entirely— Becoming the First State.” Historical theater production based on Delaware Day, the date when Delaware became the first state to ratify the United States Constitution on Dec. 7, 1787. Sponsored by theFirst State Heritage Park and presented in the candlelit Old State House. Ticket-holders will meet at the John Bell House, 43 The Green, Dover. 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. Admission $10. Pre-registration is required and spaces are limited. 302-739-9194.

The Old State House

Saturday, Dec. 9, 2017

Delaware Day awards ceremony. Event honors participants in the Delaware Department of State's 16th annual Delaware Day Fourth Grade Competitionwhich challenges students to create displays that help illustrate and explain the U.S. Constitution and the role played by Delawareans in the writing and ratification of the nation's founding document. Delaware Public Archives, 121 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Dover. 10 a.m. 302-744-5000.

Saturday, Dec. 9, 2017

Buena Vista Holiday Open House. One-day-only event featuring self-guided tours of one of Delaware’s most historic homes decorated for the holidays plus crafts and other activities for children and adults, refreshments and a book drive hosted by the University of Delaware Pi Beta Phi Sorority. Guests are encouraged to bring books to benefit local schools through Read>Lead>Achieve! Buena Vista: A Delaware Country Estate, 661 S. Dupont Highway (Route 13), New Castle. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. 302-323-4430.

Buena Vista

Saturday, Dec. 9, 2017

Demonstrations by the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild.Program explores spinning, weaving, knitting and other fabric arts. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 1–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, Dec. 9, 2017

“A Dead Whale or a Stove Boat, Part Two.” Lecture by historic-site interpreter Andrew Lyter on the glory days of the American whaling industry (1783–1861). Part three of “Global to Local: International Events and the First State,” a six-part series exploring how world events impacted Delaware’s history.Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Program at 2 p.m. on the museum’s 2nd floor (entry via staircase; no elevator). Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations for the lecture are required by calling 302-645-1148 no later than Dec. 8, 2017.

Zwaanendael Museum

Saturday, Dec. 16, 2017

“Handmade for the Holidays.” Seasonal program in which visitors can create a gift tag with paper quilling. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, Dec. 23, 2017

“Handmade for the Holidays.” Seasonal program in which visitors can design a holiday card with stencils. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Monday, Dec. 25, 2017

Christmas Day. All museums of the State of Delaware (the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State Houseand the Zwaanendael Museum) will be closed. 302-744-5054.

Monday, Jan. 1, 2018

New Year’s Day. All museums of the State of Delaware (the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State Houseand the Zwaanendael Museum) will be closed. 302-744-5054.

Exhibits and displays
In addition to special programming, the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is sponsoring the following exhibits and displays. Admission is free and open to the public:

Ongoing

“Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past.” Display explores the DeBraak, a shipwrecked 18th-century British warship, including a photo of the hull recovery, reproductions of items aboard ship and a model of the vessel. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Ongoing

“Drawing America to Victory: The Persuasive Power of the Arts in World War I.”Online exhibit revolves around 27 World War I posters from the collections of the State of Delaware.

Ongoing

“Five Stories.” Display explores the varied lives of people who lived on the plantation including Dickinson family members, tenant farmers, tradesmen, free blacks, indentured servants and enslaved individuals. John Dickinson Plantation Welcome Center, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Oct. 1–March 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. April 1–Sept. 30: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Ongoing

“Letters From a Farmer in Pennsylvania.” Online exhibit explores the life of Founding Father John Dickinson on the 250th anniversary of the publication of his essays that described Colonial American grievances with the British government.

Ongoing

“New Castle: Three Forts, One Community.” Exhibit examines the 17th-century struggle for control of New Castle by the Dutch, Swedes and English, and the strongholds that they built to maintain their power. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-323-4453.

Ongoing

“The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016.”Display explores preservation work that has been conducted since Delaware’s first state capitol building was restored to its original appearance in 1976. From the collections of the State of Delaware. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Mon.–Sat., 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Ongoing

“Rose Color to Gold to Glowing Red: Orville and Ethel Peets in Paris 1913-1914.”Exhibit featuring paintings and painting materials used by the noted Delaware artists Orville Houghton Peets and Ethel Canby Peets. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Ongoing

Sculpture by Charles Parks. Display of works by the noted Wilmington artist featuring historical and political figures including a Minute Man, and presidents Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford and George W. Bush. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-323-4453.

Ongoing

“A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World.” Exhibit utilizes artifacts recovered from His Majesty’s Sloop of War DeBraak, a British warship that sank off the Delaware coast on May 25, 1798, to tell the story of the vessel, its crew and the historical context within which it operated in the Atlantic World of the late 18th century. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Ongoing

“Simple Machines.” Exhibit demonstrating the six “simple machines”—incline ramp, screw, wedge, pulley, lever and wheel—that constitute the elementary building blocks of which many more-complicated machines are composed.John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Oct. 1–March 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. April 1–Sept. 30: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Administered by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the five museums of the State of Delaware—the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State House and the Zwaanendael Museum—tell the story of the First State’s contributions to the history and culture of the United States. Through tours, exhibits, school programs and hands-on activities, the museums shine a spotlight on Delaware’s unique history and the diverse people who came to live there. The museums are accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. The New Castle Court House Museum and the John Dickinson Plantation are partner sites of theFirst State National Historical Park. The Old State House is located on the Dover Green, another partner site of the park.

Go to the following for a comprehensive, long-term calendar of division-sponsored events.

Historical and Cultural Affairs

The historic preservation and museums newsletter of the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

June 29, 2017 * Volume 10, Issue 6

News

State fiscal year 2017 review: Delaware properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places

By Madeline Dunn, division historian and National Register of Historic Places coordinator

Read more …

Interior of the home at 901 Mount Lebanon Road in Rockland, Del. that was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 2017. The image is from a 1955 photo shoot for “Better Homes and Gardens” magazine.

Portraits of former Gov. and Mrs. Markell added to the State Portrait Collection

Collection includes more than 200 works depicting many of the state's most notable public figures.

Read more …

Division to sponsor 23 special events during July 2017

Highlights include programs on Independence Day, jazz history and quill-pen writing.

Read more …

“Lost Off Lewes: The British Warship DeBraak”

Tours explore the surviving hull section of this 18th-century shipwreck.

Read more …

Go here for more news items …

Help Save Delaware History

Kalmar Nyckel Foundation mounts new exhibit on Wilmington’s industrial past

Exhibit supported by the National Park Service’s National Maritime Heritage Grant Program.

Read more …

“Preserving Our Past for a Better Future: Delaware’s Historic Preservation Plan, 2013–2017”

Document provides a roadmap for focusing on the broad goals and needs of Delaware's preservation community.

Read more ...

Media Roundup

The following Delaware history-related articles have recently appeared in the media:

Delaware Really is Full of Endless Discoveries

Milford LIVE, Del.—June 27, 2017

Article includes information on the Johnson Victrola Museum.

Former Del. governor legacy lives through portrait

WMDT-TV, Salisbury, Md.—June 13, 2017

Paintings of Governor and Mrs. Markell are part of the State Portrait Collection administered by the division.

History Matters: a segregation-era travel guide for African Americans

Delaware Public Media, Dover, Del.—June 2, 2017

Division historian Carlton Hall interviewed about the Green Book.

Events

Saturday, July 1

First Saturday Historical Tour – Downtown Georgetown

Saturday and Tuesday, July 1 and 4

A Marching Band’s Tale – Johnson Victrola Museum

Independence Day – The Old State House

Tuesday, July 4

Independence Day – All museums of the State of Delaware will be open

Tuesday thru Saturday, July 4 to 8

Quill Pen Week – John Dickinson Plantation

Wednesday, July 5

Hale-Byrnes Open House – Hale-Byrnes House

Wednesdays, July 5, 12, 19 and 26

Lost Off Lewes: Tours of the British Warship DeBraak – Zwaanendael Museum

Saturday, July 8

Demonstrations by the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild – John Dickinson Plantation

Friday and Saturday, July 14 and 15

A Jazz Tale – Johnson Victrola Museum

Friday thru Sunday, July 14 to 16

The Golden Age of Jazz – Dover Public Library

Saturday, July 15

Running of the Mill – Abbott’s Mill Nature Center

Carrying Tea on the Delaware River & Bay – Hale-Byrnes House

Sunday, July 16

Mermaid Tavern on Limestone Road – Hale-Byrnes House

Saturday, July 22

Delaware State University Summer Bridge Service Project Day – Johnson Victrola Museum, The Old State House and the John Dickinson Plantation

Movie Night on the Lawn – Buena Vista Conference Center

Lighthouse Sunset Cruise – Lewes Harbor

For a comprehensive, long-term calendar of division-sponsored events, go here.

Exhibits and displays

Thru August 2017

World War II Through the Lens of William D. Willis – Middletown Historical Society

Ongoing

Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past – Zwaanendael Museum

Drawing America to Victory – Online

Emeline Hawkins: Her Journey from Slavery to Freedom on the Underground Railroad – New Castle Court House Museum

Five Stories – John Dickinson Plantation

The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016 – The Old State House

Rose Color to Gold to Glowing Red: Orville and Ethel Peets in Paris 1913-1914 – Zwaanendael Museum

Sculpture by Charles Parks – New Castle Court House Museum

A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World – Zwaanendael Museum

Simple Machines – John Dickinson Plantation

Online survey seeks public input regarding the preservation of historic places in Delaware

(DOVER, Del.—June 7, 2017)—In recent months, the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs has been working with partners from across the state on the development of Delaware’s next statewide historic preservation plan. As part of the process, the division has been gathering public input regarding issues and priorities facing historic places in the state.

Before-and-after photos of a preserved set of historic buildings in Wilmington.

Members of the public are urged to provide input for the preservation plan by taking the survey that can be accessed at the following web address: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DelawareHistoricPreservationPlanning2017.

The survey contains nine questions requiring approximately 15 minutes to complete. The deadline for completing the survey is Friday, June 30, 2017. For additional information, contact the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs’ State Historic Preservation Office at 302-736-7400.

The Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is an agency of the State of Delaware. The division enhances Delaware’s quality of life by preserving the state’s unique historical heritage, fostering community stability and economic vitality and providing educational programs and assistance to the general public on Delaware history and heritage. The division’s diverse array of services includes administration of the State Historic Preservation Office, operation of museums and a conference center, conservation of the state’s archaeological and historic-objects collections and management of historic properties across Delaware. Primary funding for division programs and services is provided by annual appropriations from the Delaware General Assembly and grants from the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, a federal agency. However, the contents and opinions expressed in the division’s programs and services do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Department of the Interior.

Historical and Cultural Affairs

The historic-preservation and museums newsletter of the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

June 1, 2017 * Volume 10, Issue 5

News

“Service, Suffrage, and Swing: World War I Era in Delaware”

America’s participation in "the war to end all wars” will be brought to life during this five-day program that will take place at a variety of downtown Lewes, Del. locations from June 18–22, 2017.

Read more …

Neill Hartley of the American Historical Theatre will portray President Woodrow Wilson on June 19, 2017.

Division employees receive a Delaware Award for Heroism
Greg Buchman, Chris Conley, Scott Hayes and James Scott honored for saving the life of one of their fellow employees.

Read more …

 
Division to sponsor 16 special events during June 2017

Man’s Best Friend, Separation Day and a wine-glass painting party among the events to be presented.

Read more …

“Lost Off Lewes: The British Warship DeBraak”

Tours explore the surviving hull section of this 18th-century shipwreck

Read more …

Go here for more news items …

Help Save Delaware History

Gathering public input on the 2018-2022 Statewide Historic Preservation Plan: New on-line survey available

Survey seeks feedback on the needs and issues facing historic places in Delaware.

Read more …

“Preserving Our Past for a Better Future: Delaware’s Historic Preservation Plan, 2013–2017”

Document provides a roadmap for focusing on the broad goals and needs of Delaware's preservation community.

Read more ...

Media Roundup

The following Delaware history-related articles have recently appeared in the media:

Your Guide to Our National Parks

USA Today, McLean, Va.—June 2017

First State National Historical Park one of the listings.

Georgetown museums and beyond

Cape Gazette, Lewes, Del.—May 22, 2017

Article includes information on the Old Sussex County Court House

Is Your Historic Site Ready for Mobile Devices?

Engaging Places, LLC, Rockville, Md.—May 19, 2017

Article on making electronic communications more user-friendly.

Justice to speak at Dickinson Mansion event

Dover Post, Del.—May 15, 2017

June 6, 2017 event sponsored by the Friends of the John Dickinson Mansion.

NEWSMAKER: Tom Welch

Dover Post, Del.—May 4, 2017

Article on one of The Old State House’s historical interpreters.

Author unearths treasures from Dover’s history

Delaware State News, Dover, Del.—May, 2, 2017

“Tales of Old Dover” by Bruce Walls recently released.

Beat of Johnson’s legacy goes on in Dover

Delaware State News, Dover, Del.—April 29, 2017

Article on the Johnson Victrola Museum.

Media coverage of “A Sailor’s Life for Me”—Zwaanendael Museum’s 6th Annual Maritime Celebration

Programs took place at a variety of downtown Lewes locations on May 27 and 28, 2017.

Living history highlights Memorial Day weekend in Lewes

Cape Gazette, Lewes, Del.—May 31, 2017

Lewes Learns Naval History

WRDE-TV—Lewes, Del.—May 29, 2017

Events

Saturday, June 3

Old English Country Dancing – The Old State House

Man’s Best Friend – Downtown Georgetown

Man’s Best Friend – Johnson Victrola Museum

Tuesday, June 6

Lecture by Retired Justice Randy Holland – John Dickinson Plantation

Wednesday, June 7

Hale-Byrnes Open House – Hale-Byrnes House

Wednesdays, June 7, 14, 21 and 28

Lost Off Lewes: Tours of the British Warship DeBraak – Zwaanendael Museum

Friday and Saturday, June 9 and 10

Separation Day – Downtown New Castle

Saturday, June 10

Demonstrations by the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild – John Dickinson Plantation

Lighthouse Sunset Cruise – Lewes Harbor

Saturday, June 17

Mrs. John Dickinson: Mary Norris Dickinson – Hale-Byrnes House

Running of the Mill – Abbott’s Mill Nature Center

Sunday, June 18

Update on Renovations to the Delaware Historical Society – Hale-Byrnes House

Sunday–Thursday, June 18–23

19th Annual Chautauqua Tent Show—‘Service, Suffrage, & Swing: World War I Era in Delaware – Downtown Lewes

Thursday, June 22

Spring Flower!: Wine Glass Painting Party – Buena Vista Conference Center

Tuesday, June 27

Lecture by Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs Archaeologist Allice Guerrant – Dover Public Library

For a comprehensive, long-term calendar of division-sponsored events, go here.

Exhibits and displays

Thru August 2017

World War II Through the Lens of William D. Willis – Middletown Historical Society

Ongoing

Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past – Zwaanendael Museum

Drawing America to Victory – Online

Emeline Hawkins: Her Journey from Slavery to Freedom on the Underground Railroad – New Castle Court House Museum

Five Stories – John Dickinson Plantation

The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016 – The Old State House

Rose Color to Gold to Glowing Red: Orville and Ethel Peets in Paris 1913-1914 – Zwaanendael Museum

Sculpture by Charles Parks – New Castle Court House Museum

A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World – Zwaanendael Museum

Simple Machines – John Dickinson Plantation

Historical and Cultural Affairs

The historic-preservation and museums newsletter of the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

Save

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Historical and Cultural Affairs

The historic-preservation and museums newsletter of the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

April 27, 2017 * Volume 10, Issue 4

News

“Five Stories” explores the lives of people who lived and worked at the John Dickinson Plantation

Dickinson family members, tenant farmers, tradesmen, free blacks, indentured servants and enslaved individuals are featured.

Read more …

“Five Stories” descriptive panels.

Division to sponsor seven special events during May 2017

Highlights include Dover Days presentations, the Zwaanendael Museum’s Sixth Annual Maritime Festival and A Day in Old New Castle.

Read more …

Zwaanendael Maritime Celebration: “A Sailor’s Life for Me” in Lewes, Del. over the 2017 Memorial Day weekend

Event provides visitors with an opportunity to experience seafaring lives of adventure, romance, excitement and hardships, and to honor mariners who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Read more …

Delaware featured at the opening of the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

New museum tells the story of the founding of the nation from the late-Colonial period through the ratification of the U.S. Constitution.

Read more …

“Lost Off Lewes: The British Warship DeBraak”

Tours explore the surviving hull section of this 18th-century shipwreck

Read more …

Go here for more news items …

Help Save Delaware History

Gathering public input on the 2018-2022 Statewide Historic Preservation Plan: New on-line survey available

Survey seeks feedback on the needs and issues facing historic places in Delaware.

Read more …

Archaeological symposium at the New Castle Court House Museum on April 29, 2017

Program seeks to identify the uniqueness of the Colonial cultures in the Delaware Valley in the 17th and 18th centuries. 

Read more ...

May is Delaware Archaeology Month!

Program designed to promote the study and conservation of the state’s archaeological resources.

Read more …

“Preserving Our Past for a Better Future: Delaware’s Historic Preservation Plan, 2013–2017”

Document provides a roadmap for focusing on the broad goals and needs of Delaware's preservation community.

Read more ...

Media Roundup

The following Delaware history-related articles have recently appeared in the media:

History series features "Founding Fathers & Mothers"

Delaware Public Media, Dover, Del.—April 26, 2017

Programs presented at Dover’s Old State House in April 2017.

First Saturday events return to Georgetown in 2017

Sussex County Post, Seaford, Del.—April 25, 2017

Old Sussex County Court House among venues that can be visited.

Lending a hand: Volunteers donate their time, efforts for John Dickinson Plantation cleanup

Delaware State News, Dover, Del.—April 25, 2017

Event took place as part of National Volunteer Week.

Zwaanendael Museum maritime celebration set for May 27-28

Sussex Countian, Georgetown, Del.—April 11, 2017

Event to feature local maritime-history demonstrations and displays.

Delaware Day marks unveiling of American Revolution museum

Virginia Gazette, Williamsburg, Va.—March 25, 2017

New museum tells the story of the founding of the nation from the late-Colonial period through the ratification of the U.S. Constitution.

The Epic Ride That Kick-Started the American Revolution

OZY Media, —March 17, 2017

Article on Caesar Rodney’s ride to Philadelphia.

Articles on Dover’s celebration of its 300th anniversary

Activities to kick off as part of the Dover Days Festival beginning on May 5, 2017.

Dover ready to celebrate a major milestone

Delaware Public Media, Dover, Del.—April 25, 2017

Dover to celebrate Tricentennial birthday

Delaware State News, Dover, Del.—April 25, 2017

At Dover Days Festival, city celebrates 300 years

Delaware State News, Dover, Del.—April 23, 2017

Articles on the “Make a Splash Festival”

April 5, 2017 water-education program was a joint effort of the St. Jones Reserve and the John Dickinson Plantation.

Delaware fourth graders ‘Make a Splash’

Dover Post, Del.—April 6, 2017

'Make a Splash' festival turns students onto water

News Journal, Wilmington, Del.—April 5, 2017

Events

Saturday, April 29

Archaeological and Historical Symposium of the Colonial Delaware Valley – New Castle Court House Museum

King’s Day – Zwaanendael Museum

Sunday, April 30

SpringFest at Fort Christina – Fort Christina National Historic Landmark

Wednesday, May 3

Hale-Byrnes Open House – Hale-Byrnes House

Friday–Sunday, May 5–7

Dover Days Festival – Downtown Dover

Saturday, May 6

Some Like Classical – Johnson Victrola Museum

Dover Days at the John Dickinson Plantation – John Dickinson Plantation

First Saturday Historical Tour – Downtown Georgetown

William Penn vs Lord Baltimore: Let’s Get Ready to Rumble – The Old State House

Sunday, May 7

Iron Hill Archaeology and Heritage Festival – Iron Hill Museum

Saturday, May 13

Demonstrations by the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild – John Dickinson Plantation

Daniel Morgan: Revolutionary War General – Hale-Byrnes House

Saturday, May 20

A Day in Old New Castle – Downtown New Castle

Military Encampment – Pencader Heritage Museum

Running of the Mill – Abbott’s Mill Nature Center

Saturday and Sunday, May 27 and 28

A Sailor’s Life for Me”—Zwaanendael Museum’s 6th Annual Maritime Celebration – Zwaanendael Museum

Monday, May 29

Memorial Day – All museums of the State of Delaware will be open

For a comprehensive, long-term calendar of division-sponsored events, go here.

Exhibits and displays

Thru August 2017

World War II Through the Lens of William D. Willis – Middletown Historical Society

Ongoing

Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past – Zwaanendael Museum

Drawing America to Victory – Online

Emeline Hawkins: Her Journey from Slavery to Freedom on the Underground Railroad – New Castle Court House Museum

Five Stories – John Dickinson Plantation

The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016 – The Old State House

Rose Color to Gold to Glowing Red: Orville and Ethel Peets in Paris 1913-1914 – Zwaanendael Museum

Sculpture by Charles Parks – New Castle Court House Museum

A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World – Zwaanendael Museum

Simple Machines – John Dickinson Plantation

Historical and Cultural Affairs

The historic-preservation and museums newsletter of the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

Historical and Cultural Affairs

The historic-preservation and museums newsletter of the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

March 27, 2017 * Volume 10, Issue 3

News

Delaware State Historic Preservation Office recent accomplishments

Office’s programs help to preserve Delaware’s historic places and unique cultural identity.

Read more …

Division to sponsor 18 special events during April 2017

Highlights include the Slave Dwelling Project, America's Founding Fathers and Mothers, and programs on Delaware's Dutch heritage.

Read more …

“Drawing America to Victory: The Persuasive Power of the Arts in World War I”

Online exhibit revolves around 27 World War I posters from the collections of the State of Delaware.

Read more …

Join the division’s Volunteer Program and make a difference in Delaware history

By Bridget Wallace, volunteer services coordinator, Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

Read more …

Division promotes two employees

Dominique Martucci and Tammy Dayton serve on the Business Services Team.

Read more …

Go here for more news items …

Help Save Delaware History

Delaware State Review Board for Historic Preservation to meet on April 19, 2017

Meeting to include review of the National Register nomination of the Dinker-Irvin Cottage in Bethany Beach.

Read more …

Archaeological symposium at the New Castle Court House Museum on April 29, 2017

Program seeks to identify the uniqueness of the Colonial cultures in the Delaware Valley in the 17th and 18th centuries. 

Read more ...

COMMENTARY: What are the Humanities and why should we care?

Delaware State News, Dover, Del.—March 25, 2017

Op-ed by historian Kim Burdick.

Read more …

Survey underway to update Lewes historic records

Cape Gazette, Lewes, Del.—March 22, 2017

Project will aid historic preservation commission in future.

Read more …

Preservation 50 visits Hockessin

Community News, Hockessin, Del.—March 15, 2017

Group to help develop Delaware’s historic-preservation plan.

Read more …

“Preserving Our Past for a Better Future: Delaware’s Historic Preservation Plan, 2013–2017”

Document provides a roadmap for focusing on the broad goals and needs of Delaware's preservation community.

Read more ...

Media Roundup

The following Delaware history-related articles have recently appeared in the media:

Living the history: Historic interpreters show Delaware life in the 18th century

Dover Post, Del.—March 9, 2017

Article on the John Dickinson Plantation.

Orville and Ethel Peets in Paris 1913-1914 exhibit opens in Lewes

Cape Gazette, Lewes, Del.—March 5, 2017

State-owned paintings on display at the Zwaanendael Museum.

COMMENTARY: A case for Lincoln as best president

Delaware State News, Dover, Del.—Feb. 28, 2017

Based on the “Washington vs. Lincoln" program at The Old State House on Feb. 19, 2017.

Newark historian honored for helping preserve Cooch’s Bridge battlefield

Newark Post, Del.—Feb. 27, 2017

Part of the battlefield is on the division’s Cooch-Dayett Mills property.

History Matters: Thomas Garrett's trial of 1848

Delaware Public Media, Dover, Del.—Feb. 24, 2017

Trial was held at the New Castle Court House.

Events

Saturday, April 1

USS Delaware: A Force to Be Reckoned With – The Old State House

Over There: World War I and the Victor Talking Machine Company – Johnson Victrola Museum

Wednesday, April 5

Hale-Byrnes Open House – Hale-Byrnes House

Thursday, April 6

Founding Fathers and Mothers: Washington – The Old State House

Thursday–Saturday, April 6–15

Lewes Tulip Celebration – Downtown Lewes

Saturday, April 8

Demonstrations by the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild – John Dickinson Plantation

Listen Up! The Finale – The Old State House

Annual Meeting of the Underground Railroad Coalition of Delaware – St. Jones Reserve

Meet Joseph McGill of the Slave Dwelling Project – John Dickinson Plantation

First Entrepreneur: How George Washington Built His--and the Nation's—Prosperity – Hale-Byrnes House

Sunday, April 9

EggCiting Easter Event – Belmont Hall

Allee House at Bombay Hook – Hale-Byrnes House

Wednesday, April 12

Shade Tree Symposium – Belmont Hall

Thursday, April 13

Founding Fathers and Mothers: Adams and Franklin – The Old State House

Friday, April 14

Good Friday – All museums of the State of Delaware will be open

Saturday, April 15

Running of the Mill – Abbott’s Mill Nature Center

Sunday, April 16

Easter Sunday – All museums of the State of Delaware closed

Wednesday, April 19

Delaware State Review Board for Historic Preservation Meeting – The Old State House

Thursday, April 20

Founding Fathers and Mothers: Jefferson and Madison – The Old State House

Saturday, April 22

Dutch-American Friendship Day – Zwaanendael Museum

Earth Day at the John Dickinson Plantation – John Dickinson Plantation

Monday, April 24

Observance of National Week of Service – John Dickinson Plantation

Thursday, April 27

Founding Fathers and Mothers: Hamilton – The Old State House

Saturday, April 29

Archaeological and Historical Symposium of the Colonial Delaware Valley – New Castle Court House Museum

King’s Day – Zwaanendael Museum

Sunday, April 30

SpringFest at Fort Christina – Fort Christina National Historic Landmark

For a comprehensive, long-term calendar of division-sponsored events, go here.

Exhibits and displays

Thru August 2017

World War II Through the Lens of William D. Willis – Middletown Historical Society

Ongoing

Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past – Zwaanendael Museum

Drawing America to Victory – Online

Emeline Hawkins: Her Journey from Slavery to Freedom on the Underground Railroad – New Castle Court House Museum

Five Stories – John Dickinson Plantation

The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016 – The Old State House

Rose Color to Gold to Glowing Red: Orville and Ethel Peets in Paris 1913-1914 – Zwaanendael Museum

Sculpture by Charles Parks – New Castle Court House Museum

A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World – Zwaanendael Museum

Simple Machines – John Dickinson Plantation

Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs to sponsor 14 free programs during March 2017

National Harriet Tubman Day will be celebrated with several programs during March 2017.

(DOVER, Del.—Feb. 22, 2017)—The five museums of the State of Delaware will be sponsoring 14 special events during the month of March 2017. A full schedule is included below. All programs are free and open to the public.

Administered by the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the five museums—the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State House and the Zwaanendael Museum—tell the story of the First State’s contributions to the history and culture of the United States. Through tours, exhibits, school programs and hands-on activities, the museums shine a spotlight on Delaware’s unique history and the diverse people who came to live there. The New Castle Court House Museum and the John Dickinson Plantation are partner sites of the First State National Historical Park. The Old State House is located on the Dover Green, another partner site of the park. Go to the following for a comprehensive, long-term calendar of events sponsored by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs special programs, March 2017

Saturday, March 4, 2017

“A Woman’s World: Journal Making.” Women have been integral in documenting the history of the plantation through letters and journals. Drop-in for this activity and create your own handmade journal. National Women’s History Month program. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, March 4, 2017

“The Influence of the Shadd Family.” Presentation by historic-site interpreters Latecia Prophet and Gavin Malone explores one of Delaware’s 19th-century families who led extraordinary lives of privilege despite obstacles of race and gender in their time. First Saturday in the First State program. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Program 1 p.m. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-744-5054.

Saturday, March 4, 2017

“From Prima Donnas to Divas: A Victor Creation.” Program examines the talented female vocalists of the Victor Talking Machine Company and how they paved the way for the divas of today, accompanied by 78-rpm recordings of those artists played on authentic Victor Talking Machines. First Saturday in the First State and National Women’s History Month program. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. Program at 3 p.m. in the museum’s 2nd floor gallery (entry via staircase; no elevator). Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3262.

Operatic soprano Rosa Ponselle will be one of the divas featured at the Johnson Victrola Museum on March 4, 2017 as part of National Women’s History Month.

Monday–Sunday, March 6–12, 2017

“Stories of Courage and Freedom.” Part of the “Find Your Freedom” series held in celebration of National Harriet Tubman Day. Program will feature stories of bravery, courage and freedom, and visitors can obtain The Old State House Network to Freedom cancellation stamp. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Mon.–Sat., 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Tuesday–Saturday, March 7–11, 2017

“Run For Freedom.” Part of the “Find Your Freedom” series held in celebration of National Harriet Tubman Day. Program will feature African-American history tours focused on the lives of three enslaved individuals who escaped from bondage. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Friday, March 10, 2017

Concert by Mike Nielsen on Celtic harp and bouzouki. Presented in partnership with the Delaware Friends of Folk and the First State Heritage Park. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. 5 p.m. Free admission. 302-744-5054. Note: The starting time for this program has been changed from 7:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday, March 11, 2016

“Thomas Garrett and his Role in the History of Delaware Slavery.” Part of the “Find Your Freedom” series held in celebration of National Harriet Tubman Day. Program will explore Delaware’s history of slavery, the Abolition movement and the activities of noted Abolitionist Thomas Garrett. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Programs at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-323-4453.

Thomas Garrett’s contributions to the abolition of slavery will be explored at the New Castle Court House Museum on March 11 and 12, 2017.

Thomas Garrett’s contributions to the abolition of slavery will be explored at the New Castle Court House Museum on March 11 and 12, 2017.

Saturday, March 11, 2017

Demonstrations by the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild. Program explores spinning, weaving, knitting and other fabric arts. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 1–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, March 11, 2017

“Listen Up! African American and Women’s History.” Local youth working with noted Delaware spoken-word artists perform their own spoken-word compositions that bring to light the history of Delaware’s African-Americans and women with special tributes to Underground Railroad conductors Samuel D. Burris and Harriet Tubman. Part of the “Listen Up!” series that features young people who utilize poetry, theater, dance and song to create compositions that celebrate different aspects of Delaware history. National Women’s History Month program. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Performance at 1 p.m. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054. Note: The spoken-word program on African-American history, originally scheduled for Feb. 4, 2017, was combined with women’s history for this March 11, 2017 program.

Saturday, March 11, 2017

“Patriots and Loyalists: Life in Lewes—A Town Torn During the Revolution.” Lecture by historic-site interpreter Andrew Lyter. Final segment of “Ship to Shore Saturdays,” a four-part series that chronicles local Lewes history. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Program at 2 p.m. on the museum’s 2nd floor (entry via staircase; no elevator). Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-645-1148 no later than March 10, 2017.

Sunday, March 12, 2016

“Thomas Garrett and his Role in the History of Delaware Slavery.” Part of the “Find Your Freedom” series held in celebration of National Harriet Tubman Day. Program will explore Delaware’s history of slavery, the Abolition movement and the activities of noted Abolitionist Thomas Garrett. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Program at 2 p.m. Museum open 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-323-4453.

Saturday, March 18, 2017

“A Woman’s World: Watercolors.” Experience the art of water coloring, view family drawings and paint your own watercolor. National Women’s History Month program. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, March 18, 2017

“The Minstrel Boy: The Life of John McCormack.” In celebration of Irish Heritage Month, program by museum interpreter Gavin Malone explores the life of the noted Irish tenor John McCormack, accompanied by 78-rpm recordings played on authentic Victor Talking Machines. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. Program at 3 p.m. in the museum’s 2nd floor gallery (entry via staircase; no elevator). Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-739-3262.

Monday, March 27, 2017

John Dickinson Plantation Service Project—Log’d Dwelling Clean Up. Join staff and volunteers in revitalizing an example of the type of structure that would have been lived in by the plantation’s tenants and enslaved people. Volunteers will help move and clean furniture using some of the same cleaning products from the 18th century. Registration is recommended by contacting the Division’s Volunteer Services Coordinator at 302-736-7411 or HCA_VolunteerSvcs@state.de.us. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. 1–4 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Visitors can help to clean and revitalize the John Dickinson Plantation’s log’d dwelling on March 27, 2017.

Exhibits and displays, March 2017
In addition to special programming, the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is sponsoring the following exhibits and displays. Admission is free and open to the public:

Thru mid-April, 2017

“The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016.” Display explores preservation work that has been conducted since Delaware’s first state capitol building was restored to its original appearance in 1976. From the collections of the State of Delaware. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Mon.–Sat., 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Thru Dec. 31, 2017

Portrait of Ethel Canby Peets by Orville Peets. From the exhibit, “Rose Color to Gold to Glowing Red: Orville and Ethel Peets in Paris 1913-1914,” on display at the Zwaanendael Museum.

“Rose Color to Gold to Glowing Red: Orville and Ethel Peets in Paris 1913-1914.” Exhibit featuring paintings and painting materials used by the noted Delaware artists Orville Houghton Peets and Ethel Canby Peets. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. Free admission. 302-645-1148.

Ongoing

“Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past.” Display explores the DeBraak, a shipwrecked 18th-century British warship including a photo of the hull recovery, reproductions of items aboard ship, and a model of the vessel. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Ongoing

“Emeline Hawkins: Her Journey From Slavery to Freedom on the Underground Railroad.” Exhibit chronicles the compelling story of Emeline Hawkins and her family and their 1845 odyssey on the Underground Railroad from slavery in Maryland, through Delaware to freedom in Pennsylvania. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-323-4453.

Ongoing

Five Stories. Display explores the varied lives of people who lived on the plantation including Dickinson family members, tenant farmers, tradesmen, free blacks, indentured servants and enslaved individuals. John Dickinson Plantation Welcome Center, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Oct. 1–March 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. April 1–Sept. 30: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Ongoing

“A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World.” Exhibit utilizes artifacts recovered from His Majesty’s Sloop of War DeBraak, a British warship that sank off the Delaware coast on May 25, 1798 to tell the story of the vessel, its crew and the historical context within which it operated in the Atlantic World of the late 18th century. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Ongoing

Sculpture by Charles Parks. Display of works by the noted Wilmington artist featuring historical and political figures including a Minute Man, and presidents Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford and George W. Bush. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-323-4453.

Ongoing

“Simple Machines.” Exhibit demonstrating the six “simple machines”—incline ramp, screw, wedge, pulley, lever and wheel—that constitute the elementary building blocks of which many more-complicated machines are composed. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Oct. 1–March 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.April 1–Sept. 30: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

The Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is an agency of the State of Delaware. The division enhances Delaware’s quality of life by preserving the state’s unique historical heritage, fostering community stability and economic vitality and providing educational programs and assistance to the general public on Delaware history and heritage. The division’s diverse array of services includes administration of the state historic preservation office, operation of museums and a conference center, conservation of the state’s archaeological and historic-objects collections and management of historic properties across Delaware. Primary funding for division programs and services is provided by annual appropriations from the Delaware General Assembly and grants from the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, a federal agency. However, the contents and opinions expressed in the division’s programs and services do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Department of the Interior.

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“Rose Color to Gold to Glowing Red: Orville and Ethel Peets in Paris 1913-1914”

¨    New exhibit now open at Lewes, Del.’s Zwaanendael Museum

Portrait of Ethel Canby Peets by Orville Peets.

(DOVER, Del.—Feb. 22, 2017)—The Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes, Del. is currently featuring a new exhibit entitled “Rose Color to Gold to Glowing Red: Orville and Ethel Peets in Paris 1913-1914.” Planned and created by the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the exhibit features 15 paintings—eight works by Orville Houghton Peets (1884-1968) and seven works by his wife Ethel Canby Peets (1877-1955). Also displayed are an assemblage of painting materials used by the noted Delaware artists including paint brushes and palettes.

Ethel and Orville Peets are credited with bringing fresh, modern ideas to Delaware after their move to Herring Creek near Millsboro in the 1930s. They each influenced the local art-scene in a profound and lasting manner by creating art, teaching classes and holding art forums. Between 2004 and 2007, more than 400 pieces of the couple’s multimedia artwork and artists’ supplies were donated to the collections of the State of Delaware by the Peets’ longtime friends Skipper and Til Purnell.

“Mardi Gras” By Ethel Canby Peets.

“Rose Color to Gold to Glowing Red: Orville and Ethel Peets in Paris 1913-1914” opened on Feb. 15, 2017 and will be on display through Dec. 31, 2017 at the Zwaanendael Museum, located at 102 Kings Highway in Lewes, Del. Museum operating-hours from Nov. 1 through March 31 are Wednesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. From April 1 through Oct. 31, museum operating-hours are Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sundays, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public. For additional information, call 302-645-1148.

About the artists …

Ethel Poyntell Canby (1877–1955) started her art training at the Clawson S. Hammitt School of Art in Wilmington and became friends with fellow artists Ethel P. Brown and Brown’s future husband William Leach. Canby went on to studies at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and, informally, with Howard Pyle in Wilmington. She later travelled to Paris to study at the Académie Moderne and kept a detailed diary of those years. Her work was twice awarded prizes by the Wilmington Society of the Fine Arts and was exhibited at the Baltimore Museum of Art.

Orville Houghton Peets (1884–1968) studied art in Paris at the Académie Julien and the École des Beaux-Arts. He exhibited across the United States and won numerous prizes for his prints and oil paintings. In Delaware, he organized the Wilmington Print Club, taught at the Wilmington Academy of Art, exhibited at the Wilmington Society of the Fine Arts and was a primary artist for the State Portrait Commission for which he was commissioned to paint 14 portraits. His works are in the collections of the Cleveland, Philadelphia and Baltimore museums of art; the University of Delaware; the Rehoboth Art League and the State of Delaware.

Orville was a “Renaissance man” with a wide variety of interests. Among other activities, he taught Spanish conversation classes at the Rehoboth Art League and was an active member of the Sussex Archaeological Society where he served as editor of the organization’s newsletter.

An artistic couple …

Orville Peets met both Ethel Canby and her friend Ethel P. Brown (Leach) in Paris in 1913 and taught them etching techniques. After returning to the United States, Canby and Peets were married on Sept. 23, 1914 shortly after the outbreak of World War I. Orville served in the U.S. Army after America entered the war in 1917. After the conflict, the couple moved back to France, exhibited in various salons and travelled to Portugal in the 1920s. Moving to the art colony of Woodstock, N.Y. around 1930, they became a vital part of the printmaking scene.

By the mid-1930s, Orville and Ethel had moved to the home they called Thorneby on Herring Creek near Millsboro, Del. Both exhibited their art work and volunteered at the Village Improvement Association in Rehoboth Beach. They were instrumental in the founding of the Rehoboth Art League with Louise C. Corkran and their old friend Ethel Leach. Each of them signed the Art League’s “Doors of Fame” at the dedication ceremonies on June 18, 1938, and each continued to exhibit their work and teach at the facility.

The Zwaanendael Museum was built in 1931 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the state's first European colony, Swanendael, established by the Dutch along Hoorn Kill (present-day Lewes-Rehoboth Canal) in 1631. Designed by E. William Martin (architect of Legislative Hall and the Hall of Records in Dover), the museum is modeled after the town hall in Hoorn, the Netherlands, and features a stepped facade gable with carved stonework and decorated shutters. The museum’s exhibits and presentations provide a showcase for Lewes-area maritime, military and social history.

Zwaanendael Museum

The Zwaanendael Museum is administered by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, an agency of the State of Delaware. The division enhances Delaware’s quality of life by preserving the state’s unique historical heritage, fostering community stability and economic vitality and providing educational programs and assistance to the general public on Delaware history and heritage. The division’s diverse array of services includes administration of the state historic preservation office, operation of museums and a conference center, conservation of the state’s archaeological and historic-objects collections and management of historic properties across Delaware. Primary funding for division programs and services is provided by annual appropriations from the Delaware General Assembly and grants from the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, a federal agency. However, the contents and opinions expressed in the division’s programs and services do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Department of the Interior.

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The historic-preservation and museums newsletter of the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

Jan. 31, 2017 * Volume 10, Issue 1

News

Division releases 2016 annual report

Report demonstrates how the agency is helping to preserve Delaware history and how it is sharing that history with the public.

Read more …

African American History Month programs among 17 special events at division museums in February 2017

Highlights include spoken-word poetry, African-American life at the John Dickinson Plantation in the 18th century and a program on jazz pianist "Fats" Waller.

Read more …

Dan Davis promoted to Conservation Technician IV

Thirty-one year veteran works in the division’s Horticulture Team.

Read more …

Go here for more news items …

Help Save Delaware History

“Cultural Resources Climate Change Strategy”

New report from the National Park Service.

Read more …

Historic Jehu Reed House in Delaware Suffers Apparent Damage During Recent Storm

WBOC TV, Salisbury, Md.—Jan. 25, 2017

Property is in a state of collapse.

Read more …

State may repurchase historic Weldin House in Brandywine Hundred

News Journal, Wilmington, Del.—Jan. 22, 2017

Repairs needed at the site.

Read more …

On 250th anniversary, future care for Mason-Dixon markers in question

Herald-Mail, Hagerstown, Md.—Jan. 21, 2017

Markers indicated the Colonial boundaries of Delaware, Maryland and Pennsylvania.

Read more …

Gibraltar and Marion Coffin Gardens reflect classic American style

Hockessin Community News, Del.—Jan. 19, 2017

Historic property is in deteriorating condition.

Read more …

Brandywine Hundred historic home to become art space

News Journal, Wilmington, Del.—Jan 15, 2017

Site is owned by New Castle County.

Read more …

Articles on the designation of the George Read II House as a National Historic Landmark

House built for the son of George Read Sr., a signer of both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.

New Castle’s George Read II House Designated National Historic Landmark

TownSquareDelaware.com—Jan. 18, 2017

George Read II House Designated a National Historic Landmark

Dover Post, Del.—Jan. 11, 2017

Articles on the proposed Gills Neck Village shopping center near Lewes

Concerns raised regarding the project’s proximity to a Native-American burial ground. State law protects unmarked burials.

            Battle Over Shopping Center at Delaware Burial Ground

WCAU-TV, Philadelphia, Pa.—Dec. 30, 2016

Protesters: Shopping center would be on burial ground

Delmarva Daily Times, Salisbury, Md.—Dec. 29, 2016

Locals fight for ancient burial ground preservation and clean water

WMDT-TV, Salisbury, Md.—Dec. 27, 2016

“Preserving Our Past for a Better Future: Delaware’s Historic Preservation Plan, 2013–2017”

Document provides a roadmap for focusing on the broad goals and needs of Delaware's preservation community.

Read more ...

Media Roundup

The following Delaware history-related articles have recently appeared in the media:

Dover Public Library partners with area museums

Delaware State News, Dover, Del.—Jan. 21, 2017

Division’s Dover museums participated in the program.

The stories behind Delaware’s ruins and remnants

News Journal, Wilmington, Del.—Jan. 21, 2017

Article includes information on ruins that can be seen on the New Castle Green.

Olde Christmas tradition continues at Prince George’s Chapel

Sussex County Post, Seaford, Del.—Jan. 19, 2017

Historic division-owned property was built in 1755.

Milford Museum Plans Expansion

Milford LIVE, Del.—Jan. 18, 2017

Former Milford Post Office building is owned by the division.

Winners Chosen in 4th Grade “Delaware Day” Competition

TownSquareDelaware.com—Jan. 6, 2017

Delaware Department of State program encourages students to study the U.S. Constitution.

Master and Curator

Archaeologia Cantiana, Kent County, Del.—Jan. 7, 2017

Blog on the division’s Curator of Archaeology Paul Nasca and the archaeological collections of the State of Delaware.

Work underway to showcase DeVries Monument in Lewes

Cape Gazette, Lewes, Del.—Jan. 6, 2017

Site marks the approximate location of the first European settlement in Delaware.

Thanks, Obama, for all those new national monuments

Daily Kos, Oakland, Ca.—Dec. 26, 2016

Article includes information on the First State National Historical Park.

Articles featuring Lewes’ Zwaanendael Museum

Museum commemorates Delaware's first European colony, Swanendael, established by the Dutch in 1631.

Wondering What To Do This Winter in Southern Delaware? Here are 10 Great Options

Cape Gazette, Lewes, Del.—Jan. 17, 2017

10 Southern Delaware Towns; 10 Iconic Symbols

Cape Gazette, Lewes, Del.—Jan. 5, 2017

Events

Saturday, Feb. 4

Marian Anderson: Her Achievements and Contributions – Johnson Victrola Museum

The Old State House: A Network to Freedom – The Old State House

Listen Up! African American History – The Old State House

Saturdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18 and 25

A World Apart – John Dickinson Plantation

Friday, Feb. 10, 2017

Concert by Me & My Friend Phyllis. Bluegrass/old-time music. Presented in partnership with the Delaware Friends of Folk and the First State Heritage Park. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. 7:30 p.m. Free admission. 302-744-5054.

Saturday, Feb. 11

Songs of Love – Johnson Victrola Museum

Demonstrations by the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild – John Dickinson Plantation

African-American History: State Historic Preservation in Delaware – The Old State House

Saturday, Feb. 18

Fats Waller: A Man of Many Talents – Johnson Victrola Museum

Laying of Wreath on John Dickinson's Grave – Wilmington Friends Meeting House

Baseball, Churches, and Schools: Delaware's African American History – The Old State House

Buccaneers, Bluebloods and Bonapartes – Zwaanendael Museum

Sunday Feb. 19

Washington vs. Lincoln – The Old State House

Monday, Feb. 20

Presidents Day – Johnson Victrola Museum and The Old State House open. John Dickinson Plantation, New Castle Court House Museum and Zwaanendael Museum closed

Wednesday, Feb. 22

Washington’s Birthday – All museums of the State of Delaware open

Saturday, Feb. 25

Paul Robeson – Johnson Victrola Museum

Preserving African-American History in Delaware: The Green Book – The Old State House

For a comprehensive, long-term calendar of division-sponsored events, go here.

Exhibits and displays

Thru mid-April, 2017

The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016 – The Old State House

Thru August 2017

World War II Through the Lens of William D. Willis – Middletown Historical Society

Ongoing

Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past – Zwaanendael Museum

Emeline Hawkins: Her Journey from Slavery to Freedom on the Underground Railroad – New Castle Court House Museum

Sculpture by Charles Parks – New Castle Court House Museum

A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World – Zwaanendael Museum

Simple Machines – John Dickinson Plantation

Historical and Cultural Affairs

The historic-preservation and museums newsletter of the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

Historical and Cultural Affairs is designed to stimulate public interest in the division's museums, programs and services, and to increase awareness of the value that history and historic preservation bring to the lives of Delaware's citizens and visitors. The newsletter is distributed during the last week of each month, via e-mail, to division staff members, Delaware's historical- and preservation-related communities and friends. Please submit relevant articles, news items and suggestions to Jim Yurasek, newsletter editor, at jim.yurasek@state.de.us.

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PROGRAM RESCHEDULED

“Listen Up! African-American History” program at Dover, Del.’s Old State House rescheduled from Feb. 4 to March, 11, 2017

(DOVER, Del.—Feb. 1, 2017)—Due to unforeseen circumstances, the spoken-word program “Listen Up! African-American History,” originally scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017 at Dover, Del.’s Old State House, has been postponed until March 11, 2017. The rescheduled event will be combined with an already-planned program on women’s history.

The newly combined program, entitled “Listen Up! African American and Women’s History,” will take place at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 11, 2017 at The Old State House located at 25 The Green in Dover, Del. Admission is free and open to the public. For additional information, call 302-744-5054.

Working with noted Delaware spoken-word artists who serve as mentors, the March 11 program features local youth performing their own spoken-word compositions that bring to light the history of Delaware’s African-Americans and women. Special tributes will be paid to Underground Railroad conductors Samuel D. Burris and Harriet Tubman.  The program is part of the “Listen Up!” series which showcases young people utilizing poetry, theater, dance and song to create compositions that celebrate different aspects of Delaware history.

African American History Month programs among 17 special events at the museums of the State of Delaware during February 2017

“Listen Up! African American History” will take place at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2016 at The Old State House in Dover.

(DOVER, Del.—Jan. 20, 2017)—During the month of February 2017, the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs will be offering 17 special events at the museums of the State of Delaware. Twelve of these events will be presented in commemoration of African American History Month, an annual observance celebrating the invaluable contributions that the black community has made to the culture and history of the United States. All programs listed are free and open to the public.

Highlights of the month include “Listen Up! African American History,” a program in which local youth, working with Delaware spoken-word artist Brock Kalim, perform their own spoken-word compositions that bring to light Delaware’s African-American history. The program is part of the “Listen Up!” series that features young people who utilize poetry, theater, dance and song to create compositions that celebrate different aspects of Delaware history. The performance will take place on Saturday, Feb. 4 at 1 p.m. at The Old State House located at 25 The Green in Dover.

Mannequin depicting Dinah Patten, who was enslaved at the John Dickinson Plantation. “A World Apart” tours during the month of February 2017 will explore the lives of African Americans who lived on the plantation in the 18th century.

On Saturdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18 and 25, the John Dickinson Plantation, located at 340 Kitts Hummock Road in Dover, will present “A World Apart,” a series of guided tours exploring the lives of African-Americans who lived in slavery and servitude at the home of John Dickinson, one of the founding fathers of the United States and “Penman of the Revolution.”

The life of Fats Waller will be explored at the Johnson Victrola Museum on Feb. 18, 2017.

Finally, on Saturday, Feb. 18, between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., the Johnson Victrola Museum, located at 375 S. New St. in Dover, will present Fats Waller: A Man of Many Talents,” guided tours focusing on the life and achievements of the noted jazz musician, accompanied by 78-rpm recordings played on authentic Victor Talking Machines and a short clip of the pianist in performance.

Administered by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the five museums of the State of Delaware—the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State House and the Zwaanendael Museum—tell the story of the First State’s contributions to the history and culture of the United States. Through displays, exhibits and special programs, the museums explore how the state's distinctive physical environment, in combination with the people who came to live there, gave Delaware an identity that is different from any other place. Go to the following for a long-term calendar of division-sponsored events.

Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs special events, February 2017

Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017

“

The life of Marian Anderson will be explored at the Johnson Victrola Museum on Feb. 4, 2017.

Marian Anderson: Her Achievements and Contributions.” African American History Month guided tours explore the life, achievements and political views of operatic contralto and Civil Rights activist Marian Anderson, accompanied by 78-rpm recordings played on authentic Victor Talking Machines. First Saturday in the First State program. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3262.

Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017

“The Old State House: A Network to Freedom.” African American History Month interpretive tours examine the story of Samuel D. Burris and his work on Underground Railroad, an event in the history of Delaware’s historic capitol that led to its designation as a Network to Freedom site by the National Park Service. First Saturday in the First State program. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017

“A World Apart.” Guided tours explore the 18th-century African-American experience on the plantation. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017

“Listen Up! African American History.” Local youth, working with Delaware spoken-word artist Brock Kalim, perform their own spoken-word compositions that bring to light Delaware’s African-American history. Part of the “Listen Up!” series that features young people who utilize poetry, theater, dance and song to create compositions that celebrate different aspects of Delaware history. First Saturday in the First State program. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Performance at 1 p.m. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Friday, Feb. 10, 2017

Concert by Me & My Friend Phyllis. Bluegrass/old-time music. Presented in partnership with the Delaware Friends of Folk and the First State Heritage Park. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. 7:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Saturday, Feb. 11, 2017

“Songs of Love.” In celebration of Valentine’s Day, guided tours explore the variety of songs about love recorded by Victor Records. Tours will be accompanied by 78-rpm recordings of those songs played on authentic Victor Talking Machines. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3262.

Saturday, Feb. 11, 2017

“A World Apart.” Guided tours explore the 18th-century African-American experience on the plantation. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, Feb. 11, 2017

Demonstrations by the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild. Program explores spinning, weaving, knitting and other fabric arts. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 1–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, Feb. 11, 2017

“African-American History: State Historic Preservation in Delaware.” Presentation explores Delaware’s rich African American culture, history and legacy. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Program at 1 p.m. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017

“Fats Waller: A Man of Many Talents.” African American History Month guided tours focus on the life and achievements of the noted jazz musician, accompanied by 78-rpm recordings played on authentic Victor Talking Machines and a short clip of the pianist in performance. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3262.

Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017

“A World Apart.” Guided tours explore the 18th-century African-American experience on the plantation. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017

“Baseball, Churches, and Schools: Delaware's African American History Through the Eyes of the National Register." Presentation by Madeline Dunn, Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs’ historian and National Register of Historic Places coordinator, on historic properties listed in the National Register since the 1980s that are significant to African American communities throughout the state. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Program 1 p.m. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017

“Buccaneers, Bluebloods and Bonapartes.” Lecture by historic-site interpreter Kaitlyn Dykes. Part three of “Ship to Shore Saturdays,” a four-part series that chronicles local Lewes history. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Program at 2 p.m. on the museum’s 2nd floor (entry via staircase; no elevator). Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-645-1148 no later than Feb. 17, 2017.

Sunday Feb. 19, 2017

“Washington vs. Lincoln." President’s Day theatrical presentation will pit Washington and Lincoln buffs against each other to determine who was the best president of the United States. Audience members will cast their votes in favor of their preferred candidate. After the verdict is announced, a reception will be held in which apple pie (Lincoln’s favorite) and cherry pie (associated with Washington) will be served. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Program 2 p.m. Museum open 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Monday, Feb. 20, 2017

Presidents Day. The following museums of the State of Delaware will be open: The Johnson Victrola Museum and The Old State House, open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. The following museums will be closed: The John Dickinson Plantation, the New Castle Court House Museum and the Zwaanendael Museum. 302-744-5054.

Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2017

Washington’s Birthday. All museums of the State of Delaware will be open: The Johnson Victrola Museum and The Old State House, open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; the John Dickinson Plantation, New Castle Court House Museum and the Zwaanendael Museum, open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017

“Paul Robeson.” African American History Month tours focus on the biography and family of bass vocalist Paul Robeson, and his achievements as they pertain to his struggle as a 20th-century black artist. The program will feature Robeson’s Victor recordings played on authentic Victor Talking Machines. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3262.

Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017

“A World Apart.” Guided tours explore the 18th-century African-American experience on the plantation. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017

“Preserving African-American History in Delaware: Highlighting Vibrant Communities Through Research and the ‘Green Book.’ ” Presentation by researcher Carlton Hall of the State Historic Preservation Office on the “Green Book,” a travel and vacation guidebook for people of color during the segregation era. The program will explore the stories of African-Americans of the last century and their challenges living through the Jim Crow laws in Delaware from the 1920s to the 1960s. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Program 1 p.m. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Exhibits and displays, February 2017
In addition to special programming, the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is sponsoring the following exhibits and displays:

Thru mid-April, 2017

“The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016.” Display explores preservation work that has been conducted since Delaware’s first state capitol building was restored to its original appearance in 1976. From the collections of the State of Delaware. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Mon.–Sat., 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Ongoing

“Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past.” Display explores the DeBraak, a shipwrecked 18th-century British warship including a photo of the hull recovery, reproductions of items aboard ship, and a model of the vessel. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Section of the exhibit, “Emeline Hawkins: Her Journey From Slavery to Freedom on the Underground Railroad,” on display at the New Castle Court House Museum.

Ongoing

“Emeline Hawkins: Her Journey From Slavery to Freedom on the Underground Railroad.” Exhibit chronicles the compelling story of Emeline Hawkins and her family and their 1845 odyssey on the Underground Railroad from slavery in Maryland, through Delaware to freedom in Pennsylvania. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-323-4453.

Ongoing

Artistic rendition of the capsizing of the DeBraak by Peggy Kane, 1990. The story of the ship is explored in the exhibit, “A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World” at the Zwaanendael Museum.

“A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World.” Exhibit utilizes artifacts recovered from His Majesty’s Sloop of War DeBraak, a British warship that sank off the Delaware coast on May 25, 1798 to tell the story of the vessel, its crew and the historical context within which it operated in the Atlantic World of the late 18th century. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Ongoing

Sculpture by Charles Parks. Display of works by the noted Wilmington artist featuring historical and political figures including a Minute Man, and presidents Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford and George W. Bush. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-323-4453.

Ongoing

“Simple Machines.” Exhibit demonstrating the six “simple machines”—incline ramp, screw, wedge, pulley, lever and wheel—that constitute the elementary building blocks of which many more-complicated machines are composed. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Oct. 1–March 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.April 1–Sept. 30: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Ongoing

“Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past.” Display explores the DeBraak, a shipwrecked 18th-century British warship including a photo of the hull recovery, reproductions of items aboard ship, and a model of the vessel. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

The Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is an agency of the State of Delaware. The division enhances Delaware’s quality of life by preserving the state’s unique historical heritage, fostering community stability and economic vitality and providing educational programs and assistance to the general public on Delaware history and heritage. The division’s diverse array of services includes administration of the state historic preservation office, operation of museums and a conference center, conservation of the state’s archaeological and historic-objects collections and management of historic properties across Delaware. Primary funding for division programs and services is provided by annual appropriations from the Delaware General Assembly and grants from the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, a federal agency. However, the contents and opinions expressed in the division’s programs and services do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Department of the Interior.

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Historical and Cultural Affairs

The historic-preservation and museums newsletter of the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

Dec. 27, 2016 * Volume 9, Issue 12

News

Fifteenth annual Delaware Day competition winners announced

Eight holiday-themed activities among the programs to be offered.

Read more …

Display created by North Laurel Elementary School for the Delaware Day Fourth Grade Competition.

Division to sponsor seven free programs during January 2017

Highlights include Prohibition in Delaware, patriotic music during World War I and culinary traditions of Sussex County.

Read more …

Sussex Gardeners deck the halls of the Zwaanendael Museum

Holiday display features preserved flowers, fruit, evergreen branches and other plant material.

Read more …

Johnson Victrola Museum parking lot closed

Lot to be closed at least through Jan. 31, 2017. Museum will remain open.

Read more …

Division honors staff and volunteers at all-staff event

Dec. 12, 2016 event recognized 2016 achievements.

Read more …

Division welcomes new staff members

Recent hires help the division in its efforts to save Delaware history.

Read more …

Go here for more news items …

Help Save Delaware History

St. Paul AME Church in Harrington added to the National Register of Historic Places

Church has served the town’s black community since 1895.

Read more …

Hurricane Hermine unearths war relics in Cape Henlopen

News Journal, Wilmington, Del.—Nov. 27, 2016

World War II-era artifacts found.

Read more …

“Preserving Our Past for a Better Future: Delaware’s Historic Preservation Plan, 2013–2017”

Document provides a roadmap for focusing on the broad goals and needs of Delaware's preservation community.

Read more ...

Media Roundup

The following Delaware history-related articles have recently appeared in the media:

Did a Delawarean give us the Electoral College?

The News Journal, Wilmington, Del.—Dec 2, 2016

Article on the contributions of John Dickinson to the founding of the United States.

Events

Sunday, Jan. 1

New Year’s Day – All museums of the State of Delaware closed

Monday, Jan. 2

New Year’s Day Observed – Johnson Victrola Museum and The Old State House open. John Dickinson Plantation, New Castle Court House Museum and Zwaanendael Museum closed

Saturday, Jan. 7

Prohibition in Delaware: No Toast for the Boys off to Fight in World War I – The Old State House

The Victors of World War I: The Power of Music – Johnson Victrola Museum

Patriots and Loyalists: Life in Lewes—A Town Torn During the Revolution – Zwaanendael Museum

Sunday, Jan. 8

Olde Christmas Musical Celebration – Prince George’s Chapel

Friday, Jan. 13

Concert by Charlie Zahm – The Old State House

Saturday, Jan. 14

Preserving the Culinary Traditions of Southern Delaware – Zwaanendael Museum

Monday, Jan. 16

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – Johnson Victrola Museum and The Old State House open. John Dickinson Plantation, New Castle Court House Museum and Zwaanendael Museum closed

Courage and Freedom – The Old State House

The Struggle – Johnson Victrola Museum

For a comprehensive, long-term calendar of division-sponsored events, go here.

Exhibits and displays

Thru Jan. 28, 2017

Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting – Zwaanendael Museum

Thru mid-April, 2017

The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016 – The Old State House

Thru August 2017

World War II Through the Lens of William D. Willis – Middletown Historical Society

Ongoing

Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past – Zwaanendael Museum

Emeline Hawkins: Her Journey from Slavery to Freedom on the Underground Railroad – New Castle Court House Museum

Sculpture by Charles Parks – New Castle Court House Museum

A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World – Zwaanendael Museum

Simple Machines – John Dickinson Plantation

Historical and Cultural Affairs

The historic-preservation and museums newsletter of the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

Historical and Cultural Affairs is designed to stimulate public interest in the division's museums, programs and services, and to increase awareness of the value that history and historic preservation bring to the lives of Delaware's citizens and visitors. The newsletter is distributed during the last week of each month, via e-mail, to division staff members, Delaware's historical- and preservation-related communities and friends. Please submit relevant articles, news items and suggestions to Jim Yurasek, newsletter editor, at jim.yurasek@state.de.us.

Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs to sponsor 14 special programs during the 2016 winter-holiday season

 The Johnson Victrola Museum will present “A Victrola for Christmas” on Dec. 3, 2016.

(DOVER, Del.—Nov. 18, 2016)—The Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs will be sponsoring 14 special events, including nine winter-holiday-themed activities, between Nov. 26, 2016 and Jan. 2, 2017. A full schedule is included below. All programs are free and open to the public.

Saturday, Nov. 26, 2016

“Handmade for the Holidays.” Seasonal program in which visitors can create a sachet with herbs and spices. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Thursday, Dec. 1, 2016

“Hospitality Night: ‘The Holiday Pickle.’ ” Learn how to make pickles, explore the history of the pickle and its significance to the season and enjoy the museum trimmed for the holidays by the Sussex Gardeners. Presented in partnership with the Lewes Chamber of Commerce. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. 5–8 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016

“A Victrola for Christmas.” Guided tours examine the holiday marketing-strategies of Eldridge Reeves Johnson of the Victor Talking Machine Company including advertisements posted in newspapers and magazines in the early 1900s, accompanied by 78-rpm recordings of holiday music played on authentic Victor Talking Machines. First Saturday in the First State program. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3262.

Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016

“Tour Zwaanendael Museum.” Enjoy the museum’s festive holiday-décor. Event held in conjunction with the Lewes Historical Society’s Christmas Tour of Lewes. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016

“Handmade for the Holidays.” Seasonal program in which visitors can design a holiday card with watercolors and a quill pen. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016

“Historic Holiday Traditions.” Lecture by historic-site interpreter Latecia Prophet examines holiday traditions of the 18th century. First Saturday in the First State program. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Program at 1 p.m. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

The Old State House

Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016
“Listen Up! The Art of Sound.” Local youth working with Delaware spoken-word artists James Alexander, Brock Kalim and the Twin Poets, perform their own spoken-word compositions that sample historic 78-rpm Victor recordings. Part of the “Listen Up!” series that features young people who utilize poetry, theater, dance and song to create compositions that celebrate different aspects of Delaware history. First Saturday in the First State program. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. Performance at 1 p.m. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2016

“1784-1787: Continental Congress to Constitution.” Lecture by historic-site interpreter Bob Vander Decker. Final segment of “The Founding of America in One Year,” a year-long series that examines important local and national events that led to the founding of the United States. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. 7 p.m. 302-323-4453. NOTE: Event date changed from 12-14-16 to 12-7-16.

Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016

“Spirit of Christmas in New Castle.” One of the best preserved Colonial-era towns in America will feature tours of historic homes bedecked in holiday decorations, Dickens-themed holiday activities, re-enactments, programs at museums including the New Castle Court House Museum, crafts, musical entertainment and more. Festivities will conclude at 5 p.m. with the annual Christmas tree lighting at Market Square. Downtown New Castle. 302-328-3279.

Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016

Delaware Day awards ceremony. Event honors participants in the Delaware Department of State's 15th annual Delaware Day Fourth Grade Competition which challenges students to create displays that help illustrate and explain the U.S. Constitution and the role played by Delawareans in the writing and ratification of the nation's founding document. Delaware Public Archives, 121 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Dover. 10 a.m. 302-744-5000.

Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016

“Land and Sea Christmas”: Buena Vista Holiday Open House. One-day-only event features tours of one of Delaware’s most historic homes decorated for the holidays plus craft activities for children. Buena Vista Conference Center, 661 S. Dupont Highway (Route 13), New Castle. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. 302-323-4430.

Buena Vista

Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016

Demonstrations by the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild. Program explores spinning, weaving, knitting and other fabric arts. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 1–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016

“The Tragic and Heroic Legacy of Jacob Jones.” Lecture by historic-site interpreter Kaitlyn Dykes. Part two of “Ship to Shore Saturdays,” a four-part series that chronicles local Lewes history. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Program at 2 p.m. on the museum’s 2nd floor (entry via staircase; no elevator). Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-645-1148 no later than Dec. 9, 2016.

Saturday, Dec. 17, 2016

“Handmade for the Holidays.” Seasonal program in which visitors can create an ornament through paper quilling. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Mansion house at the John Dickinson Plantation.

Saturday, Dec. 24, 2016

Christmas Eve. All museums of the State of Delaware (the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State House and the Zwaanendael Museum) will be closed. 302-744-5054.

Sunday, Dec. 25, 2016

Christmas Day. All museums of the State of Delaware (the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State House and the Zwaanendael Museum) will be closed. 302-744-5054.

Monday, Dec. 26, 2016

Christmas Day observed. The following museums of the State of Delaware will be open: The Johnson Victrola Museum and The Old State House, open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. The following museums will be closed: The John Dickinson Plantation, the New Castle Court House Museum and the Zwaanendael Museum. 302-744-5054.

Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017

New Year’s Day. All museums of the State of Delaware (the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State House and the Zwaanendael Museum) will be closed. 302-744-5054. ¨

Monday, Jan. 2, 2017

New Year’s Day observed. The following museums of the State of Delaware will be open: The Johnson Victrola Museum and The Old State House, open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. The following museums will be closed: The John Dickinson Plantation, the New Castle Court House Museum and the Zwaanendael Museum. 302-744-5054. ¨

Exhibits and displays

In addition to special programming, the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is sponsoring the following exhibits and displays. Admission is free and open to the public:

Thru Dec. 31, 2016

“Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting.” Exhibit features objects and graphics from the 18th to the 21st centuries that illustrate Delaware’s wine and spirits trade. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Zwaanendael Museum

Thru mid-April, 2017

“The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016.” Display explores preservation work that has been conducted since Delaware’s first state capitol building was restored to its original appearance in 1976. From the collections of the State of Delaware. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Mon.–Sat., 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Ongoing

“Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past.” Display explores the DeBraak, a shipwrecked 18th-century British warship including a photo of the hull recovery, reproductions of items aboard ship, and a model of the vessel. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Ongoing

“Emeline Hawkins: Her Journey From Slavery to Freedom on the Underground Railroad.” Exhibit chronicles the compelling story of Emeline Hawkins and her family and their 1845 odyssey on the Underground Railroad from slavery in Maryland, through Delaware to freedom in Pennsylvania. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-323-4453.

Section of the exhibit “Emeline Hawkins: Her Journey from Slavery to Freedom on the Underground Railroad,” on display at the New Castle Court House Museum.

Ongoing

“A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World.” Exhibit utilizes artifacts recovered from His Majesty’s Sloop of War DeBraak, a British warship that sank off the Delaware coast on May 25, 1798 to tell the story of the vessel, its crew and the historical context within which it operated in the Atlantic World of the late 18th century. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Ongoing

Sculpture by Charles Parks. Display of works by the noted Wilmington artist featuring historical and political figures including a Minute Man, and presidents Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford and George W. Bush. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-323-4453.

Ongoing

“Simple Machines.” Exhibit demonstrating the six “simple machines”—incline ramp, screw, wedge, pulley, lever and wheel—that constitute the elementary building blocks of which many more-complicated machines are composed. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Oct. 1–March 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.April 1–Sept. 30: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

The Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is an agency of the state of Delaware. The division enhances Delaware’s quality of life by preserving the state’s unique historical heritage, fostering community stability and economic vitality and providing educational programs and assistance to the general public on Delaware history and heritage. The division’s diverse array of services includes administration of the state historic preservation office, operation of museums and a conference center, conservation of the state’s archaeological and historic-objects collections and management of historic properties across Delaware. Primary funding for division programs and services is provided by annual appropriations from the Delaware General Assembly and grants from the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, a federal agency. However, the contents and opinions expressed in the division’s programs and services do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Department of the Interior.

The historic-preservation and museums newsletter of the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

Oct. 28, 2016 * Volume 9, Issue 10

News

Carolyn Apple receives a Governor’s Outstanding Volunteer Award

Division volunteer honored for her efforts in saving the William D. Willis World War II Photographic Collection.

Read more …

Carolyn Apple being congratulated on her award by Gov. Jack Markell.

Division to sponsor 14 free programs during November 2016

18th Century Market Fair, candle making and music of World War I among the events to be presented.

Read more …

Holiday party to take place at the John Dickinson Plantation on Dec. 4, 2016

Sponsored by the Friends of the John Dickinson Mansion. Reservations required by Nov. 21, 2016.

Read more …

Four division staff members named Department of State Employee of the Second Quarter

Employees helped save the life of one of their co-workers.

Read more …

Division staff members lend a hand at the Delaware Veterans Home

Seventeen individuals volunteered their services in September 2016.

Read more …

Go here for more news items …

Help Save Delaware History

NPS Report Highlights $9.4 Billion in Private Investment in Historic Preservation Across America

FY 2015 annual report prepared by Rutgers University Center for Urban Policy Research.

Read more …

Volunteer archaeologists dig up long-forgotten history at Forest Landing

Dover Post, Del.—Oct. 20, 2016

Site once served as a port for Colonial Dover.

Read more …

Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs hires architectural historian

Sussex Countian, Georgetown, Del.—Sept. 30, 2016

Kara Briggs serves in the State Historic Preservation Office.

Read more …

Major renovation on historic county courthouse

Cape Gazette, Lewes, Del.—Sept. 28, 2016

Article on Old Sussex County Court House.

Read more …

“Preserving Our Past for a Better Future: Delaware’s Historic Preservation Plan, 2013–2017”

Document provides a roadmap for focusing on the broad goals and needs of Delaware's preservation community.

Read more ...

Media Roundup

The following Delaware history-related articles have recently appeared in the media:

The Legend of the Delmarva Sea Witch

Cape Gazette, Lewes, Del.—Oct. 26, 2016

Video includes interview with Beth Gott, historic-site interpreter at the Zwaanendael Museum.

November programs set at Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes

Cape Gazette, Lewes, Del.—Oct. 19, 2016

Article highlights three upcoming events.

The Delaware Way Historical and Cultural Arts
The Delaware Way, KJWP TV, Wilmington, Del.—Oct. 17, 2016

Television segment explores the division and its upcoming public programs.

The "Near-Immortality" of Charles Parks' Symbolic Sculptures

Delaware Today, Wilmington, Del.—October 2016

Article on new book on the noted Delaware artist. Many of Parks’ works are in the collections of the state of Delaware.

You’ll Want To Visit These 10 Houses In Delaware For Their Incredible Pasts

OnlyInYourState.com—Sept. 26, 2016

John Dickinson mansion and Hale-Byrnes House among the featured properties.

Garden Variety: Explore the Brandywine River Valley

Preservation Magazine, Washington, D.C.—Fall, 2016

Article includes information on the First State National Historical Park.

Events

Friday, Oct. 28

Photo Friday – John Dickinson Plantation

Saturday, Oct. 29

Mysteries of History – Zwaanendael Museum

Who Done It: A Historic Murder Mystery – The Old State House

Wednesday, Nov. 2

Hale-Byrnes Open House – Hale-Byrnes House

Saturday, Nov. 5

18th Century Market Fair – Dover Green

Some Like Classical – Johnson Victrola Museum

Military vehicle display – Pencader Heritage Museum

Preserving Large Metal Artifacts Outdoors – Zwaanendael Museum

Tuesday, Nov. 8

Election Day ­– Johnson Victrola Museum, Old State House, John Dickinson Plantation and New Castle Court House Museum open. Zwaanendael Museum closed

The People’s House – The Old State House

Swing – Johnson Victrola Museum

Wednesday, Nov. 9

1782-1783: Treaty Signed – New Castle Court House Museum

Thursday, Nov. 10

Return Day – Johnson Victrola Museum, Old State House, John Dickinson Plantation and New Castle Court House Museum open. Zwaanendael Museum open 10 a.m.–Noon only

Friday, Nov. 11

Veterans Day – Johnson Victrola Museum, Old State House, John Dickinson Plantation, New Castle Court House Museum and Zwaanendael Museum open

The Victors of World War I: The Power of Music – Johnson Victrola Museum

Veteran’s Walking Tours – New Castle Court House Museum

Delaware Band of Brothers: A Veterans Day Presentation – The Old State House

Saturday, Nov. 12

Dutch-American Heritage Day – Zwaanendael Museum

Demonstrations by the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild – John Dickinson Plantation

Fatal Sunday: George Washington, the Monmouth Campaign and the Politics of Battle – Hale-Byrnes House

Sunday, Nov. 13

History of the Stone School in Claymont – Hale-Byrnes House

Saturday, Nov. 19

Bayberry candle workshops – John Dickinson Plantation

A Revolutionary Game of Cat and Mouse: Henry Fisher, HMS Roebuck and the Delaware Bay – Zwaanendael Museum

Running of the Mill – Abbott’s Mill Nature Center

Thursday, Nov. 24

Thanksgiving Day – All museums of the State of Delaware closed

Friday, Nov. 25

Day After Thanksgiving – Johnson Victrola Museum, Old State House, John Dickinson Plantation, New Castle Court House Museum and Zwaanendael Museum open

Saturday, Nov. 26

Handmade for the Holidays – John Dickinson Plantation

For a comprehensive, long-term calendar of division-sponsored events, go here.

Exhibits and displays

Thru Dec. 31, 2016

Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting – Zwaanendael Museum

Thru mid-April, 2017

The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016 – The Old State House

Thru August 2017

World War II Through the Lens of William D. Willis – Middletown Historical Society

Ongoing

Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past – Zwaanendael Museum

Emeline Hawkins: Her Journey from Slavery to Freedom on the Underground Railroad – New Castle Court House Museum

Sculpture by Charles Parks – New Castle Court House Museum

A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World – Zwaanendael Museum

Simple Machines – John Dickinson Plantation

Historical and Cultural Affairs

The historic-preservation and museums newsletter of the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

Historical and Cultural Affairs is designed to stimulate public interest in the division's museums, programs and services, and to increase awareness of the value that history and historic preservation bring to the lives of Delaware's citizens and visitors. The newsletter is distributed during the last week of each month, via e-mail, to division staff members, Delaware's historical- and preservation-related communities and friends. Please submit relevant articles, news items and suggestions to Jim Yurasek, newsletter editor, at jim.yurasek@state.de.us.

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“Distilling in Delaware”: Oct. 22, 2016 lecture by Mike Rasmussen of Painted State Distillery

¨     Listing of museum events through December 2016 also included

Showroom at the Painted Stave Distillery with a bottle of one of the company’s products—“Off the Hoof” scrapple-flavored vodka.

(DOVER, Del.—Oct. 13, 2016)—On Saturday, Oct. 22, 2016 at 5 p.m., the Zwaanendael Museum, located at 102 Kings Highway in Lewes, Del., will host “Distilling in Delaware,” a lecture on the history of distilling in the First State by Mike Rasmussen, co-founder of Painted Stave Distilling. Presented in coordination with the museum’s exhibit “Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting, “ the program will include a tasting of some of the company’s products. Note: The program will be held on the museum’s 2nd floor (entry via staircase; no elevator). Admission is free but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-645-1148 no later than Oct. 21, 2016.

Founded in 2011 by Ron Gomes, Jr. and Mike Rasmussen, Painted Stave Distilling crafts premium spirits in small batches by utilizing ingredients sourced from regional farms and by blending traditions of the past with today’s creativity and state-of-the-art technology. The distillery is housed in a 1940s-era movie theater located at 106 W. Commerce St. in Smyrna, Del.

The Zwaanendael Museum was built in 1931 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the state's first European colony, Swanendael, established by the Dutch along Hoorn Kill (present-day Lewes-Rehoboth Canal) in 1631. Designed by E. William Martin (architect of Legislative Hall and the Hall of Records in Dover), the museum is modeled after the town hall in Hoorn, the Netherlands, and features a stepped facade gable with carved stonework and decorated shutters. The museum’s exhibits and presentations provide a showcase for Lewes-area maritime, military and social history.

Zwaanendael Museum

Following is a schedule of Zwaanendael-Museum-sponsored special events through December 2016. All programs take place at the Zwaanendael Museum located at 102 Kings Highway, Lewes, Del. Museum hours from Nov. 1 to March 31 are Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. From April 1 to Oct. 31, museum hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. All programs listed are free and open to the public. For additional information, call 302-645-1148.

Zwaanendael Museum special events through December 2016

Saturday, Oct. 22, 2016

“Distilling in Delaware.” Lecture on the history of distilling in the First State by Mike Rasmussen, co-founder of Painted Stave Distilling in Smyrna, Del., plus a tasting of some of the company’s products. Presented in coordination with the museum’s exhibit “Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting.” Program at 5 p.m. on the museum’s 2nd floor (entry via staircase; no elevator). Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-645-1148 no later than Oct. 21, 2016.

Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016

“Mysteries of History.” Walking tour explores the unusual tombstones of St. Peter’s cemetery in Lewes. Tour leaves from the museum at 2 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 5, 2016

“Preservation50—‘Preserving Large Metal Artifacts Outdoors.’ ” Lecture by Michael D. Leister, former director of the Air Mobility Command Museum. Presented in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the passage of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Program at 2 p.m. on the museum’s 2nd floor (entry via staircase; no elevator). Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-645-1148 no later than Nov. 4, 2016.

Thursday, Nov. 10, 2016

Return Day. Museum open 10 a.m.–Noon only due to this Sussex County holiday.

Saturday, Nov. 12, 2016

Dutch-American Heritage Day. Celebrate the anniversary of Nov. 16, 1776 when an American warship sailed into the harbor of the Dutch island of St. Eustatius in the West Indies and was greeted by a friendly salute, the first ever given by a foreign power to the flag of the newly-independent United States. Activities from 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. will include Dutch crafts, historical information and, at 2 p.m., “How Did a Rocky Dutch Island Seven Square Miles in Area Become the Catalyst for American Revolution?," a lecture by Stuart Forman. Lecture held on the museum’s 2nd floor (entry via staircase; no elevator).

Saturday, Nov. 19, 2016

“A Revolutionary Game of Cat and Mouse: Henry Fisher, HMS Roebuck and the Delaware Bay.” Lecture by historic-site interpreter Andrew Lyter. Part one of “Ship to Shore Saturdays,” a four-part series that chronicles local Lewes history. Program at 2 p.m. on the museum’s 2nd floor (entry via staircase; no elevator). Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-645-1148 no later than Nov. 18, 2016.

Thursday, Nov. 24, 2016

Thanksgiving Day. Museum closed.

Thursday, Dec. 1, 2016

“Hospitality Night: ‘The Holiday Pickle.’ ” Learn how to make pickles and explore the history of the pickle and its significance to season; and enjoy the museum trimmed for the holidays by the Sussex Gardeners. Presented in partnership with the Lewes Chamber of Commerce. 5–8 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016

“Tour Zwaanendael Museum.” Enjoy the museum’s festive holiday-décor. Event held in conjunction with the Lewes Historical Society’s Christmas Tour of Lewes.

Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016

“Ship to Shore Saturday.” Lecture by historic-site interpreter Kaitlyn Dykes. Part two of a four-part series that chronicles local Lewes history. Program at 2 p.m. on the museum’s 2nd floor (entry via staircase; no elevator). Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-645-1148 no later than Dec. 9, 2016.

Zwaanendael Museum exhibits and displays

Thru Dec. 31, 2016

“Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting.” Exhibit features objects and graphics from the 18th to the 21st centuries that illustrate Delaware’s wine and spirits trade.

Containers and accessories from Levy & Glosking distillers of Dover, Del. Part of the exhibit, “Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting.”

Ongoing

“A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World.” Exhibit utilizes artifacts recovered from His Majesty’s Sloop of War DeBraak, a British warship that sank off the Delaware coast on May 25, 1798 to tell the story of the vessel, its crew and the historical context within which it operated in the Atlantic World of the late 18th century.

Ongoing

“Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past.” Display explores the DeBraak, a shipwrecked 18th-century British warship including a photo of the hull recovery, reproductions of items aboard ship, and a model of the vessel.

The Zwaanendael Museum is administered by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, an agency of the state of Delaware. The division enhances Delaware’s quality of life by preserving the state’s unique historical heritage, fostering community stability and economic vitality and providing educational programs and assistance to the general public on Delaware history and heritage. The division’s diverse array of services includes administration of the state historic preservation office, operation of museums and a conference center, conservation of the state’s archaeological and historic-objects collections and management of historic properties across Delaware. Primary funding for division programs and services is provided by annual appropriations from the Delaware General Assembly and grants from the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, a federal agency. However, the contents and opinions expressed in the division’s programs and services do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Department of the Interior.

Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs to sponsor 17 free programs during October 2016

Re-enactment of the Livery of Seizen ritual inside the New Castle Court House Museum. The ceremony will be conducted as part of William Penn Day on Oct. 22, 2016.

(DOVER, Del.—Sept. 20, 2016)— The five museums of the State of Delaware will be sponsoring 17 special events during the month of October 2016. A full schedule is included below. All programs are free and open to the public.

Administered by the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the five museums—the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State House and the Zwaanendael Museum—tell the story of the First State’s contributions to the history and culture of the United States. Through tours, exhibits, school programs and hands-on activities, the museums shine a spotlight on Delaware’s unique history and the diverse people who came to live there. The New Castle Court House Museum and the John Dickinson Plantation are partner sites of the First State National Historical Park. The Old State House is located on the Dover Green, another partner site of the park. Go to the following for a comprehensive, long-term calendar of events sponsored by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs special programs, October 2016

Saturday, Oct. 1, 2016

“The Birth and Re-Birth of a State House: The 40th Anniversary of The Old State House Restoration.” Guided tours explore the modifications that have been made to The Old State House since its completion in 1791, Mabel Lloyd Ridgely’s efforts to restore it, and its restoration in 1976 as part of the nation’s bicentennial. First Saturday in the First State program. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Saturday, Oct. 1, 2016

“Music of the World.” Guided tours explore the music of cultures from around the world that was recorded by the Victor Talking Machine Company, accompanied by 78-rpm records played on authentic Victor Talking Machines. First Saturday in the First State program. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3262.

Displays at the Johnson Victrola Museum.

Saturday, Oct. 1, 2016

River Towns Ride and Festival. Festivals in historic New Castle and Delaware City frame a bicycling event between the two cities. Family-oriented festival held from 11:30 a.m.–5 p.m. at the New Castle Court House Museum and The Green in New Castle will feature food and craft beer, music, pumpkin decorating and children’s games. 302-323-4453.

Fridays, Oct. 7, 14 and 28, 2016

“Photo Fridays.” Take advantage of early morning and late afternoon light to photograph the natural beauty of the home and grounds of the “Penman of the Revolution.” John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Plantation open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Early and late access available by reservation only by calling 302-739-3277.

Saturday, Oct. 8, 2016

“A Day in the Life of the John Dickinson Plantation.” Visitors of all ages will enjoy a day of hands-on activities from Colonial trades to hearth cooking in the 18th-century setting of the home of the “Penman of the Revolution.” John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, Oct. 8, 2016

Demonstrations by the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild. Program explores spinning, weaving, knitting and other fabric arts. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 1–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Sunday, Oct. 9, 2016

“Currents Reading.” Literary reading by Delaware poets and authors published in the new anthology “Currents” which showcases work from the Delaware Division of the Arts’ 2012 Cape Henlopen writers retreat. Part of the statewide Delaware Literary Reading Series 2016. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. 1–3 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Monday, Oct. 10, 2016

Columbus Day. The following museums of the State of Delaware will be open: The Johnson Victrola Museum and The Old State House, open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. The following museums will be closed: The John Dickinson Plantation, the New Castle Court House Museum and the Zwaanendael Museum. 302-744-5054.

Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016

“1781 Surrender: End of War.” Lecture by historic-site interpreter Bob Vander Decker. Part 10 of “The Founding of America in One Year,” a year-long series that examines important local and national events that led to the founding of the United States. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. 7 p.m. 302-323-4453.

Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2016

Delaware State Review Board for Historic Preservation annual business meeting. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. 10 a.m. 302-736-7417.

Friday, Oct. 21, 2016

“Lantern Tours of the Plantation.” Programs explore the parties, games, dances and entertainment that would have abounded at the plantation during the nighttime in the 18th century. Activities will also include wagon-ride guided-tours conducted by staff of the St. Jones Reserve exploring the nocturnal life of the estuary. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Programs 6–7 p.m. and 7:30–8:30 p.m. Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling the John Dickinson Plantation at 302-739-3277 no later than Oct. 20.

Autumn scene at the John Dickinson Plantation.

Saturday, Oct. 22, 2016

William Penn Day. Series of programs commemorating the 334th anniversary of Penn’s disembarkment at New Castle, his first landing in the New World. Activities include a re-enactment of the Livery of Seizen ritual at 10:15 a.m. in which Penn received possession of New Castle and a 12-mile circle of land surrounding it; a performance by De Blokfluiters recorder/flute ensemble at 11 a.m.; “The Tryal of William Penn,” a historical play exploring Penn’s trial on religious freedom and the rights of English subjects under the law at 12:30 and 3:30 p.m.; “The Amazing Mrs. Penn,” a living-history performance by Jean Norvell as Hannah Penn at 2 p.m.; and a Baroque concert by the Immanuel Bach Consort at 5:30 p.m. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Free admission but reservations required for the 5:30 p.m. concert. 302-323-4453.

Saturday, Oct. 22, 2016

“Distilling in Delaware.” Lecture on the history of distilling in the First State by Mike Rasmussen, co-founder of Painted Stave Distilling in Smyrna, Del., plus a tasting of some of the company’s products. Presented in coordination with the museum’s exhibit “Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting.” Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Program at 5 p.m. on the museum’s 2nd floor (entry via staircase; no elevator). Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-645-1148 no later than Oct. 21, 2016.

Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2016

“The Spirit of New Castle Past.” Play by historic-site interpreter David Price explores historical figures of New Castle’s past who return to tell their stories of conquest, murder, adultery, kidnapping, slavery and revolution. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. 7 p.m.  Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required. 302-323-4453.

Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016

“Mysteries of History.” Walking tour explores the unusual tombstones of St. Peter’s cemetery in Lewes. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Tour leaves from the museum at 2 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016

“Who Done It: A Historic Murder Mystery.” Fictionalized historical play in which museum guests assist Delaware’s Dr. James Sykes in questioning suspects in the death of Samuel Bedford, III. Based on a real 18th-century medical mystery solved by Dr. Sykes. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Performances at 2 and 8 p.m. Visitors to the 2 p.m. performance are encouraged to bring children for indoor trick-or-treating at stops within the building. Costumes are welcomed for all who attend. Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-744-5054.

The Old State House

Exhibits and displays, October 2016
In addition to special programming, the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is sponsoring the following exhibits and displays. Admission is free and open to the public:

Thru Dec. 31, 2016

“Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting.” Exhibit features objects and graphics from the 18th to the 21st centuries that illustrate Delaware’s wine and spirits trade. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Containers and accessories from Levy & Glosking distillers of Dover, Del. Part of the exhibit, “Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting.”

Thru mid-April, 2017

“The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016.” Display explores preservation work that has been conducted since Delaware’s first state capitol building was restored to its original appearance in 1976. From the collections of the State of Delaware. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Mon.–Sat., 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Ongoing

“Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past.” Display explores the DeBraak, a shipwrecked 18th-century British warship including a photo of the hull recovery, reproductions of items aboard ship, and a model of the vessel. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.302-645-1148.

Ongoing

“Emeline Hawkins: Her Journey From Slavery to Freedom on the Underground Railroad.” Exhibit chronicles the compelling story of Emeline Hawkins and her family and their 1845 odyssey on the Underground Railroad from slavery in Maryland, through Delaware to freedom in Pennsylvania. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-323-4453.

Ongoing

“A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World.” Exhibit utilizes artifacts recovered from His Majesty’s Sloop of War DeBraak, a British warship that sank off the Delaware coast on May 25, 1798 to tell the story of the vessel, its crew and the historical context within which it operated in the Atlantic World of the late 18th century. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.302-645-1148.

Ongoing

Sculpture by Charles Parks. Display of works by the noted Wilmington artist featuring historical and political figures including a Minute Man, and presidents Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford and George W. Bush. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-323-4453.

Ongoing

“Simple Machines.” Exhibit demonstrating the six “simple machines”—incline ramp, screw, wedge, pulley, lever and wheel—that constitute the elementary building blocks of which many more-complicated machines are composed. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Oct. 1–March 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.April 1–Sept. 30: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

The Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is an agency of the state of Delaware. The division enhances Delaware’s quality of life by preserving the state’s unique historical heritage, fostering community stability and economic vitality and providing educational programs and assistance to the general public on Delaware history and heritage. The division’s diverse array of services includes administration of the state historic preservation office, operation of museums and a conference center, conservation of the state’s archaeological and historic-objects collections and management of historic properties across Delaware. Primary funding for division programs and services is provided by annual appropriations from the Delaware General Assembly and grants from the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, a federal agency. However, the contents and opinions expressed in the division’s programs and services do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Department of the Interior.

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Historical and Cultural Affairs

The historic-preservation and museums newsletter of the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

Aug. 29, 2016 * Volume 9, Issue 8

News

Native-American heritage to be spotlighted at division museums during September 2016

Programs on Delaware’s Lenape and Nanticoke Indian tribes to be featured.

Read more …

Lenape fancy dancer. The Lenape Indian Tribe of Delaware will be celebrating its heritage with drums, songs and dancing on Sept. 3, 2016.

Free admission beginning Aug. 31, 2016 for “Lost off Lewes: The British warship DeBraak”

Tours explore the surviving hull section of an 18th-century shipwreck.

Read more …

Division’s exhibit of World War II photographs moves to the Middletown Historical Society

Exhibit features photographs taken by Dover, Del. native William D. Willis from 1943 to 1945.

Read more …

“Listen Up!”: How About Something Different?

Division’s spoken-word program to explore Native-American themes on Sept. 3, 2016.

Read more …

Go here for more news items …

Help Save Delaware History

Kara Briggs joins the division staff as an architectural historian

New employee will serve in the State Historic Preservation Office.

Read more …

Fort Dupont project combines waterfront development with historic preservation

WDDE Radio, Dover, Del.—Aug. 19, 2016

Site originally built for coastal defense during the American Civil War.

Read more …

Grants for historic preservation

National Park Service now accepting applications for African American Civil Rights Grants.

Read more …

“Preserving Our Past for a Better Future: Delaware’s Historic Preservation Plan, 2013–2017”

Document provides a roadmap for focusing on the broad goals and needs of Delaware's preservation community.

Read more ...

Media Roundup

The following Delaware history-related articles have recently appeared in the media:

11 ways you can still savor summer with these lesser-known national parks

Washington Examiner, D.C.—Aug.17, 2016

Article includes information on the First State National Historical Park.

Two new exhibits to open at museum in Middletown

Middletown Transcript, Del.—Aug. 10, 2016

“World War II Through the Lens of William D. Willis: a photographic exhibit” was designed by the division.

Listen Up Delaware
The Delaware Way, KJWP TV, Wilmington, Del.—Aug. 8, 2016

Television segment explores the division’s spoken-word program which is designed to teach young people about Delaware history.

Enlighten Me: Reopening Fort Christina

WDDE Radio, Dover, Del.—July 29, 2016

Park re-opened through partnership between the division, the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation and the First State National Historic Park.

Mended clothing helps mend lives in Delaware

News Journal, Wilmington, Del.—July 16, 2016

Buena Vista Conference Center was a partner in the program.

Articles on Abbott’s Mill

Division leases the historic mill building to the Delaware Nature Society.

Fall Weather Brings Play Back Home

Milford LIVE, Del.—Aug. 21, 2016

Abbott’s Mill Nature Center celebrates 35 years

Delaware State News, Dover, Del.—Aug. 17, 2016

Events

Wednesday, Aug. 31

Weaving Wednesday – John Dickinson Plantation

Wednesdays and Thursdays, Aug. 31; Sept. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29

Lost Off Lewes: Tours of the British Warship DeBraak – Zwaanendael Museum

Saturday, Sept. 3

The First People of the First State: A Lenape Celebration of Heritage – The Green, Dover

Lenape Drums on The Green – The Green, Dover

Battlefield Memorial Ceremony – Pencader Heritage Museum

Trades of the Plantation: Plaster-Casting – John Dickinson Plantation

Saturday, Sept. 3 and Monday, Sept. 5

Man’s Best Friend – Johnson Victrola Museum

Monday, Sept. 5

Labor Day – Johnson Victrola Museum, Old State House, John Dickinson Plantation, New Castle Court House Museum and the Zwaanendael Museum will be open

Post Cards of Dover – The Old State House

The Long Road to Recognition – The Old State House

Wednesday, Sept. 7

Hale-Byrnes Open House – Hale-Byrnes House

Saturday, Sept. 10

Trades of the Plantation: Weaving – John Dickinson Plantation

Delaware State Parks: Time Travelers – The Old State House

Demonstrations by the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild – John Dickinson Plantation

Annual Lafayette's Birthday Party – Hale-Byrnes House

Lighthouse Sunset Cruise – Lewes Harbor

Sunday, Sept. 11

Land Grants in Mill Creek Hundred – Hale-Byrnes House

Wednesday, Sept. 14

1779-1780: War and Politics – New Castle Court House Museum

Saturday, Sept. 17

Trades of the Plantation: Blacksmithing – John Dickinson Plantation

We ARE Still Here! – The Old State House

Running of the Mill – Abbott’s Mill Nature Center

Saturday, Sept. 24

Historic Claymont Tour – Claymont

Trades of the Plantation: Smokehouse – John Dickinson Plantation

Surviving Invasion: The First People of the First State – The Old State House

Songs and Stories: Oral Traditions of Delaware’s Native Peoples – Zwaanendael Museum

For a comprehensive, long-term calendar of division-sponsored events, go here.

Exhibits and displays

Thru Dec. 31, 2016

Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting – Zwaanendael Museum

Thru mid-April, 2017

The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016 – The Old State House

Thru August 2017

World War II Through the Lens of William D. Willis – Middletown Historical Society

Ongoing

Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past – Zwaanendael Museum

Emeline Hawkins: Her Journey from Slavery to Freedom on the Underground Railroad – New Castle Court House Museum

Sculpture by Charles Parks – New Castle Court House Museum

A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World – Zwaanendael Museum

Simple Machines – John Dickinson Plantation

Historical and Cultural Affairs

The historic-preservation and museums newsletter of the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.

Historical and Cultural Affairs is designed to stimulate public interest in the division's museums, programs and services, and to increase awareness of the value that history and historic preservation bring to the lives of Delaware's citizens and visitors. The newsletter is distributed during the last week of each month, via e-mail, to division staff members, Delaware's historical- and preservation-related communities and friends. Please submit relevant articles, news items and suggestions to Jim Yurasek, newsletter editor, at jim.yurasek@state.de.us.

Programs on America’s struggle for independence among 20 special events sponsored by the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs during July 2016

(DOVER, Del.—June 20, 2016)—During the month of July 2016, the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs will be offering 20 special events at sites across the state including five programs focusing on America’s struggle for independence. A full schedule of events is listed below.

Highlights of the month include a series of patriotic-themed activities held on Monday, July 4, 2016 at The Old State House located at 25 The Green in Dover. At 1 p.m., the museum will present a spoken-word performance by area youth on Delaware's role in the 13 Colonies’ fight for independence from England. The performance is part of “Listen Up!,” a year-long series of activities in which participants research and develop their own spoken-word presentations based on events in Delaware history. At 2 and 4 p.m., the bell of The Old State House will ring in celebration of the nation’s birthday, followed immediately by site interpreters, dressed in period clothing, who will recite the Declaration of Independence aloud from the spot where the document was first read to the citizens of Dover in 1776.

Historical interpreters will recite the Declaration of Independence from the steps of Dover’s Old State House on July 4, 2016.

Between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Saturday July 2 and Monday, July 4, 2016, the Johnson Victrola Museum, located at 375 S. New St. in Dover, will present “Stars and Stripes,” special guided tours that explore some of Victor Records’ many recordings of patriotic music accompanied by 78-rpm records played on authentic Victor Talking Machines.

Finally, on Wednesday, July 13 at 7 p.m., the New Castle Court House Museum, located at 211 Delaware St. in historic downtown New Castle, will present “1776—Independence Declared,” a lecture by historic-site interpreter Bob Vander Decker. The lecture is part seven of “The Founding of America in One Year,” a year-long series that examines important local and national events that led to the founding of the United States.

Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs special programs, July 2016

Saturday July 2, 2016

“Independence Day.” Screening of the film “Thunder and Rain” about Caesar Rodney’s historic ride to Philadelphia to break the tie for the Declaration of Independence. First Saturday in the First State program. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Film screenings at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Free admission. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Saturday July 2 and Monday, July 4, 2016

“Stars and Stripes.” In celebration of Independence Day, guided tours explore some of Victor Records’ many recordings of patriotic music accompanied by 78-rpm records played on authentic Victor Talking Machines. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Free admission. 302-739-3262.

Monday, July 4, 2016

Independence Day. All museums of the State of Delaware will be open: The Johnson Victrola Museum, open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; The Old State House, open 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; the John Dickinson Plantation, New Castle Court House Museum and the Zwaanendael Museum, open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Free admission. 302-736-7400.

Monday, July 4, 2016

“Independence Day.” Performance at 1 p.m. by youth participating in the “Listen Up!” spoken-word program on the meaning of Independence Day. At 2 and 4 p.m., the bell of The Old State House will ring in celebration of the nation’s birthday, followed immediately by site interpreters, dressed in period clothing, who will recite the Declaration of Independence aloud from the spot where the document was first read to the citizens of Dover in 1776. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Museum open 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Free admission. 302-744-5054.

Wednesdays and Thursdays, July 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 and 28, 2016

“Lost Off Lewes: The British Warship DeBraak.” Special tour explores the 18th-century history, artifacts and the surviving hull section of this shipwreck. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. 9 a.m. Limited seating. Admission $10 by reservation only through the Shop Delaware website (go to http://shop.delaware.gov and click on “Tours” in the “Categories” column). For additional information, call 302-645-1148. 

Thursdays, July 7, 14, 21 and 28, 2016

“Thirsty on Thursdays.” Learn how to make cool 18th-century drinks including switchels, lemonade and tea. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Free admission. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, July 9, 2016

Demonstrations by the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild. Program explores spinning, weaving, knitting and other fabric arts. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 1–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Free admission. 302-739-3277.

Wednesday, July 13, 2016

“1776—Independence Declared.” Lecture by historic-site interpreter Bob Vander Decker. Part seven of “The Founding of America in One Year,” a year-long series that examines important local and national events that led to the founding of the United States. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. 7 p.m. Free admission. 302-323-4453.

Saturday, July 23, 2016

Summer Bridge Service Project Day. History-related activities presented by Delaware State University students as part of the school’s Jumpstart Program. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Free admission. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, July 23, 2016

“Movie Night on the Lawn.” Screening of the film “Honey I Shrunk the Kids” plus live music, food trucks, outdoor activities and a photo booth. Buena Vista Conference Center, 661 S. Dupont Highway (Route 13), New Castle. 6–10 p.m. Admission $3 per person. 302-323-4430.

Exhibits and displays, July 2016
In addition to special programming, the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is sponsoring the following exhibits and displays. Admission is free and open to the public:

Thru Dec. 31, 2016

“Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting.” Exhibit features objects and graphics from the 18th to the 21st centuries that illustrate Delaware’s wine and spirits trade. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Thru mid-April, 2017

“The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016.” Display explores preservation work that has been conducted since Delaware’s first state capitol building was restored to its original appearance in 1976. From the collections of the State of Delaware. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Mon.–Sat., 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Ongoing

“Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past.” Display explores the DeBraak, a shipwrecked 18th-century British warship including a photo of the hull recovery, reproductions of items aboard ship, and a model of the vessel. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.302-645-1148.

Ongoing

“Emeline Hawkins: Her Journey From Slavery to Freedom on the Underground Railroad.” Exhibit chronicles the compelling story of Emeline Hawkins and her family and their 1845 odyssey on the Underground Railroad from slavery in Maryland, through Delaware to freedom in Pennsylvania. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-323-4453.

Ongoing

“A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World.” Exhibit utilizes artifacts recovered from His Majesty’s Sloop of War DeBraak, a British warship that sank off the Delaware coast on May 25, 1798 to tell the story of the vessel, its crew and the historical context within which it operated in the Atlantic World of the late 18th century. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. April 1–Oct. 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. Nov. 1–March 31: Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.302-645-1148.

Ongoing

Sculpture by Charles Parks. Display of works by the noted Wilmington artist featuring historical and political figures including a Minute Man, and presidents Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford and George W. Bush. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-323-4453.

Ongoing

“Simple Machines.” Exhibit demonstrating the six “simple machines”—incline ramp, screw, wedge, pulley, lever and wheel—that constitute the elementary building blocks of which many more-complicated machines are composed. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. April 1–Sept. 30: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. Oct. 1–March 31: Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

The Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is an agency of the state of Delaware. The division enhances Delaware’s quality of life by preserving the state’s unique historical heritage, fostering community stability and economic vitality and providing educational programs and assistance to the general public on Delaware history and heritage. The division’s diverse array of services includes administration of the state historic preservation office, operation of museums and a conference center, conservation of the state’s archaeological and historic-objects collections and management of historic properties across Delaware. Primary funding for division programs and services is provided by annual appropriations from the Delaware General Assembly and grants from the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, a federal agency. However, the contents and opinions expressed in the division’s programs and services do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Department of the Interior.

Zwaanendael Maritime Celebration: €œ'A Sailor'€™s Life for Me'€ in Lewes, Del. on Saturday, May 28, 2016

¨     Listing of museum events through September 2016 also included

 Historic-site interpreters, dressed in period clothing, will be demonstrating shipboard life at the Zwaanendael Maritime Celebration on May 28, 2016.

(DOVER, Del.—May 19, 2016)—The adventure, romance, excitement and hardships experienced by 18th- and 19th-century seafarers will be brought to life at the fifth annual Zwaanendael Maritime Celebration: “A Sailor’s Life for Me” that will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 28, 2016 at the Zwaanendael Museum located at 102 Kings Highway in Lewes, Del. The celebration will provide opportunities for adults as well as children to experience the everyday lives of sailors by scrubbing the deck, learning about shipboard food, playing “Crown and Anchor” and other Colonial-period games, exploring a vessel’s cargo and the merchants who shipped it, and serving on a block-and-tackle station where visitors will be drilled by a demanding mariner looking for new crew members.

In addition, the festival will feature displays and demonstrations on local maritime history presented by a variety of organizations including the Archaeological Society of Delaware which will offer “Delaware Archaeology” and “Maritime Archaeology With ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle)”; the Lewes Historical Society which will present “Games During the Age of Sail” and “Delightful Distractions: Children’s Farm Toys During the 18th Century”; the Lightship Overfalls which will offer displays on the restoration of the Overfalls and the history of lightships; and the Marine Education, Research and Rehabilitation Institute (MERR) which will present marine mammal and sea turtle artifacts and photos.

The Zwaanendael Museum was built in 1931 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the state's first European colony, Swanendael, established by the Dutch along Hoorn Kill (present-day Lewes-Rehoboth Canal) in 1631. Designed by E. William Martin (architect of Legislative Hall and the Hall of Records in Dover), the museum is modeled after the town hall in Hoorn, the Netherlands, and features a stepped facade gable with carved stonework and decorated shutters. The museum’s exhibits and presentations provide a showcase for Lewes-area maritime, military and social history.

Zwaanendael Museum

Following is a schedule of Zwaanendael-Museum-sponsored special events through September 2016. Unless otherwise noted, all programs take place at the Zwaanendael Museum located at 102 Kings Highway, Lewes, Del. Museum hours from April 1 to Oct. 31 are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. From Nov. 1 to March 31, museum hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Unless otherwise noted, all programs are free and open to the public. For additional information, call 302-645-1148.

Zwaanendael Museum special events through September 2016

Saturday, May 28, 2016

Fifth Annual Zwaanendael Maritime Celebration: “A Sailor’s Life for Me.” Maritime-themed activities, games, displays by local organizations and more. 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Wednesdays and Thursdays, June 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29 and 30; July 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 and 28; Aug. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25 and 31; and Sept. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29, 2016

“Lost Off Lewes: The British Warship DeBraak.” Special tour explores the 18th-century history, artifacts and the surviving hull section of this shipwreck. 9 a.m. Limited seating. Admission $10 by reservation only through the Shop Delaware website (go to http://shop.delaware.gov and click the “Tours” link).

Sunday, June 19, 2016

18th Annual Chautauqua—“Making the First State Shine: 50 Years of Historic Preservation in Delaware.” Day-long series of activities focusing on historic preservation beginning at Noon and culminating at 7:15 p.m. when Peyton Dixon of the American Historical Theatre portrays president and preservationist Teddy Roosevelt.

Monday, June 20, 2016

18th Annual Chautauqua—“Making the First State Shine: 50 Years of Historic Preservation in Delaware.” Day-long series of activities focusing on historic preservation beginning at Noon and culminating at 7:15 p.m. when Kim Hanley of the American Historical Theatre portrays philanthropist Abby Aldrich Rockefeller who was a leader in the restoration of Colonial Williamsburg.

Tuesday, June 21, 2016

18th Annual Chautauqua—“Making the First State Shine: 50 Years of Historic Preservation in Delaware.” Historic-preservation-related activities include a bus trip to historic New Castle, Del. sponsored by the Lewes Historical Society (admission charge, call 302-645-7670 for reservations); a free tour of the Lightship Overfalls, 219 Pilottown Road, Lewes at 2 p.m.; and a free concert by Mike Hines and the Look, Stango Park, 111 Adams Ave., Lewes at 7 p.m.

Wednesday, June 22, 2016

18th Annual Chautauqua—“Making the First State Shine: 50 Years of Historic Preservation in Delaware.” Historic-preservation-related activities include cemetery tours at 1 and 3 p.m., and historic-house tours at 2 and 4 p.m. sponsored by the Lewes Historical Society (admission charge, call 302-645-7670 for reservations). In addition, the Bethel United Methodist Church, 129 W. 4th St., Lewes, will host free performances by violinist Conor McAvinue at 6 p.m., followed at 7:15 p.m. by Jill Lawrence of the American Historical theatre portraying Jackie Kennedy Onassis.

Thursday, June 23, 2016

18th Annual Chautauqua—“Making the First State Shine: 50 Years of Historic Preservation in Delaware.” Historic-preservation-related activities include cemetery tours at 1 and 3 p.m., and historic-house tours at 2 and 4 p.m. sponsored by the Lewes Historical Society (admission charge, call 302-645-7670 for reservations). In addition, St. George’s African Methodist Episcopal Church, 317 Park Ave., Lewes, will host a free Worship Experience by the Singing and Praying Band of Maryland and Delaware at 6 p.m.

Zwaanendael Museum exhibits and displays

Thru Dec. 31, 2016

“Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting.” Exhibit features objects and graphics from the 18th to the 21st centuries that illustrate Delaware’s wine and spirits trade.

Ongoing

“A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World.” Exhibit utilizes artifacts recovered from His Majesty’s Sloop of War DeBraak, a British warship that sank off the Delaware coast on May 25, 1798 to tell the story of the vessel, its crew and the historical context within which it operated in the Atlantic World of the late 18th century.

Ongoing

“Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past.” Display explores the DeBraak, a shipwrecked 18th-century British warship including a photo of the hull recovery, reproductions of items aboard ship, and a model of the vessel.

The Zwaanendael Museum is administered by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, an agency of the state of Delaware. The division enhances Delaware’s quality of life by preserving the state’s unique historical heritage, fostering community stability and economic vitality and providing educational programs and assistance to the general public on Delaware history and heritage. The division’s diverse array of services includes administration of the state historic preservation office, operation of museums and a conference center, conservation of the state’s archaeological and historic-objects collections and management of historic properties across Delaware. Primary funding for division programs and services is provided by annual appropriations from the Delaware General Assembly and grants from the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, a federal agency. However, the contents and opinions expressed in the division’s programs and services do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Department of the Interior.