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Lost off Lewes: The British warship DeBraak

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“Lost off Lewes: The British warship DeBraak”

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

(DOVER, Del.—May 25, 2016)—Beginning on June 8, 2016, the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs will offer tours that explore the 18th-century history, artifacts and the surviving hull section of His Majesty’s Sloop DeBraak, a British warship that was escorting and protecting a convoy of merchant ships en route to the United States when it was capsized and lost off the Delaware coast on May 25, 1798. Tours will take place at 9 a.m. on the following Wednesdays and Thursdays during 2016: 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.

Each tour begins at the Zwaanendael Museum, located at 102 Kings Highway in Lewes, Del., where a lecture on the ship will be presented in conjunction with the exhibit “A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World.” Participants will learn about the history, crew and sinking of the DeBraak through a guided presentation and display of actual artifacts. Attendees will then be transported, via van, to the DeBraak conservation facility for interpretation and viewing of the ship’s surviving hull section.

Visitors enjoying a tour of the DeBraak hull which can be seen in the left of the photo.

Each tour will last approximately two hours. Individuals age 10 and up are welcome. Space is limited to 12 participants. The cost of the program is $10 per person. For reservations (non-refundable) please visit the Shop Delaware website (go to http://shop.delaware.gov and click on “Tours” in the “Categories” column). For questions, call 302-645-1148. Walk-ups are welcome but space is not guaranteed.

Significance of DeBraak …

During the late-18th and early-19th centuries, sloops of war such as DeBraak played an increasingly important role in Royal Navy campaigns. These relatively small vessels combined speed, agility, shallow draft and increased firepower, all of which made them formidable naval vessels. As the only Royal Navy sloop of war from this time period that has been recovered anywhere in the world, DeBraak serves as an invaluable historical resource for a time when Great Britain was the world’s preeminent naval power.

Artistic rendition of the capsizing of the DeBraak by Peggy Kane, 1990.

The surviving section of the DeBraak’s hull and its associated artifact collection have been curated by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs since they were acquired by the state of Delaware in 1992. Approximately one-third of the hull survives including the keel, keelson and lower framing elements, including a large section of the starboard (right) side.

About the Zwaanendael Museum …

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.

DeBraak tour participants listening to a presentation at the Zwaanendael Museum. The exhibit “A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World” is in the background.

The Zwaanendael Museum, as well as the curation of the DeBraak hull and its associated artifact collection, are 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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Historical and Cultural Affairs Newsletter, April 25, 2016 * Volume 9, Issue 4

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Historical and Cultural Affairs

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

April 25, 2016 * Volume 9, Issue 4

News

Capital improvements completed at state-owned historic properties in New Castle

State invested $350,000 for projects at the New Castle Court House Museum, Arsenal, Academy and Green.

Before and after photos of repairs to the New Castle Academy’s garden wall.

Division to sponsor 14 special programs during May 2016

Highlights of the month include programs on the saving of The Old State House, a symposium on the early Colonial archaeology of the Delaware Valley region and the Zwaanendael Maritime Celebration.

The Life and Love of Ethel Canby Peets

Article on the noted Delaware artist written by division intern Amanda Svehla.

Read more …

Division staff news

Additions made to volunteer-services, horticulture and site-management teams and at the Buena Vista Conference Center.

Quilt Documentation Day to take place at Lewes Presbyterian Church on April 30, 2016

Project is designed to record the rich tradition of quilt-making in the state of Delaware.

“The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016”

Display will open at Dover's Old State House on May 4, 2016.

Go here for more news items …

Help Save Delaware History

Division seeks architectural historian

Application deadline: April 29, 2016

Theme of 2016 Dover Days Festival is historic preservation

Division will be offering several programs including those celebrating the 1976 restoration of The Old State House.

Archaeological symposium at the New Castle Court House Museum on May 7, 2016

Program seeks to identify the uniqueness of the early colonial cultures in the region.

“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.

Media Roundup

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

DNS Honors Marvel Family, Celebrates Slaughter Beach

Milford Live, Del.—March 29, 2016

Article notes partnership between the division and the Delaware Nature Society.

Articles featuring the First State National Historical Park

Park includes New Castle Court House Museum and John Dickinson Plantation.

Delaware's new national park is spread over 100 miles

News Journal, Wilmington, Del.—April 10, 2016

The Newest National Parks to Visit in 2016

Huffington Post, New York, N.Y.—March 21, 2016

Articles on the Dover Days Festival

Theme of this year’s event is historic preservation.

Dover Days Festival 'Preservation 50' programs May 6-8

Milford Beacon, Del.—April 20, 2016

Dover Days Festival set for May 6-8

Delaware State News, Dover, Del.—March 31, 2016

Article notes the festival theme is historic preservation.

Articles on division historic-site interpreter Tom Welch

Welch is a scholar on the prominent McLain family of Delaware.

Enjoy the rich history of Delaware

Delaware State News, Dover, Del.—April 16, 2016

Historian’s work brings Revolutionary spy Allen McLane back to life

The Daily Local, West Chester, Pa.—April 8, 2016

Articles on the Make a Splash Festival

Event occurred at the John Dickinson Plantation and St. Jones Reserve on April 5, 2016.

Water takes center stage as fourth-graders Make a Splash

Cape Gazette, Lewes, Del.—April 11, 2016

Delaware fourth-graders learn liquid lesson about water

Delaware State News, Dover, Del.—April 5, 2016

Articles on “Wine and Spirits in Delaware”

Exhibit currently on display at The Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes.

Wine and Spirits in Delaware exhibit to open in Lewes April 2

Cape Gazette, Lewes, Del.—March 29, 2016

‘Wine and Spirits in Delaware’ exhibit to open April 2

Sussex Countian, Georgetown, Del.—March 24, 2016

Events

Saturday, April 30

King’s Day – Zwaanendael Museum

Quilt Documentation Day – Lewes Presbyterian Church

Sunday, May 1

Iron Hill Archaeology and Heritage Festival – Iron Hill Museum

Post Cards of the Past – The Old State House

Tuesday, May 3

Preserving Sussex County History: The Green Book – Laurel Public Library

Wednesday, May 4

Hale-Byrnes Open House – Hale-Byrnes House

Friday, May 6

There’s a Party in the House – The Old State House

Friday–Sunday, May 6–8

Dover Days Festival – Downtown Dover

Saturday, May 7

Symposium on the Early Colonial Archaeology of the Delaware Valley – New Castle Court House Museum

Dover Days at the John Dickinson Plantation – John Dickinson Plantation

Saturday and Sunday, May 7 and 8

Dover Days at The Old State House – The Old State House

Sounds of War: Patriotic Music – Johnson Victrola Museum

Wednesday, May 11

1774—The Continental-Congress Era Begins – New Castle Court House Museum

Saturday, May 14

Military Encampment – Pencader Heritage Museum

Demonstrations by the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild – John Dickinson Plantation

Black Patriots of the American Revolution – Hale-Byrnes House

Sunday, May 15

Armchair Tour of Market Street, Wilmington – Hale-Byrnes House

Friday, May 20

African-American History in 20th Century Delaware: The Green Book – City of Wilmington

Saturday, May 21

A Day in Old New Castle – Downtown New Castle

Running of the Mill – Abbott’s Mill Nature Center

Saturday, May 28

A Sailor’s Life for Me – Zwaanendael Museum

Monday, May 30

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

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

Exhibits and displays

May 4, 2016–mid-April, 2017

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

Thru Dec. 31, 2016

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

Ongoing

Called to Service: Women’s Roles During World War II – Legislative Hall

Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past – Zwaanendael Museum

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

Middletown Goes To War – Middletown Historical Society

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

Through the Lens – Seaford Museum

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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Quilt Documentation Day at Lewes Presbyterian Church on April 30, 2016

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Quilt Documentation Day to take place at

Lewes Presbyterian Church on April 30, 2016

(DOVER, Del.—April 18, 2016)—The Delaware Quilt Documentation Project will hold a Quilt Documentation Day on Saturday, April 30, 2016, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Lewes Presbyterian Church located at 133 Kings Highway in Lewes, Del.

The project is designed to record the rich tradition of quilt-making in the state of Delaware and to help preserve its legacy for future generations. Owners of quilts made before 1950 are encouraged to bring their quilts to this informative documentation process which involves photographing each quilt, recording its physical characteristics and gathering historical information about the quilt and/or the quilt-maker. Admission to the session is free and there is no cost for the documentation of quilts made in Delaware. Walk-ins are welcome, but an appointment is recommended to guarantee that a particular quilt is includedin the documentation process. A donation is requested for the documentation of quilts without a Delaware provenance.

After the documentation process has been completed, data related to Delaware-made quilts will be compiled and analyzed, and a book featuring the most representative and historically important quilts will be developed. The project plans to mount a traveling exhibition of selected quilts which will be displayed in each of Delaware's three counties.

The Delaware Quilt Documentation Projectis a collaborative effort between the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs and the University of Delaware. Information about Delaware quilts will be submitted to The Quilt Index, a national data base maintained by The Alliance for American Quilts. The project is supported, in part, by grants from the Delaware Humanities Forum and the National Quilting Association, as well as individual contributions. For additional information contact the project co-coordinators Ann Baker Horsey of the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs at 302-739-6402 or Dr. Fran Mayhew of the University of Delaware at 302-368-8423. To make an appointment, call Dr. Mayhew.

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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Sussex Gardeners fill every room of Lewes, Del.’s Zwaanendael Museum with tulip arrangements

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Sussex Gardeners fill every room of

Lewes, Del.’s Zwaanendael Museum with tulip arrangements

(DOVER, Del.—April 6, 2016)—In observation of the 2016 Lewes Tulip Celebration which will take place from April 7 through 16, 2016, every room of the Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes, Del. has been brightened with fresh tulip arrangements provided by the Sussex Gardeners, a local garden group.

The beauty of the tulip, the most Dutch of flowers, complements the museum which 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-RehobothCanal) in 1631. The museum is modeled after the town hall in Hoorn, the Netherlands and features a stepped facade gable with carved stonework and decorated shutters. Museum exhibits and presentations provide a showcase for Lewes-area maritime, military and social history.

Wreaths made with tulips that were recently installed on the front doors of the ZwaanendaelMuseum by the Sussex Gardeners.

Located at 102 Kings Highway in Lewes, Del., the Zwaanendael Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., from April 1 to Oct. 31; and Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., from Nov. 1 to March 31. Admission is free and open to the public. For additional information, call 302-645-1148.

In addition to exhibits and tours, the museum will be offering the following special programs during April and May 2016:

Saturday, April 9, 2016

Literary Reading. Featuring Delaware writers Liz Dolan, Larry Kelts, Maria Masington, Phillip Bannowsky, Jim Bourey and more. Part of the statewide Delaware Literary Reading Series 2016. Program at 1 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 April 8, 2016.

Saturday, April 16, 2016

Dutch-American Friendship Day. Discover Delaware's Dutch roots and learn how that connection is alive today. 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 30, 2016

King’s Day. Celebration of the birthday of King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands in a program that will also explore royal titles and Delaware's Dutch connection. 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

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. 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

About the Sussex Gardeners:

Founded in 1937 as the Nassau Garden Committee, the 40-plus-member Sussex Gardeners are the oldest garden club in Sussex County. In addition to meeting 10 times per year and improving their gardening/flower-arranging skills, the group takes part in civic beautification projects including their third annual Rehoboth Beach Garden Tour which is scheduled for May 14, 2016.

The ZwaanendaelMuseum 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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Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting

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“Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting”
New exhibit to open at Lewes, Del.’s Zwaanendael Museum on April 2, 2016

(DOVER, Del.—March 23, 2016)—Beginning on April 2, 2016, a new exhibit, entitled “Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting,” will be on display at the Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes, Del.

Levy and Glosking containers and accessories compressed Planned and created by the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the exhibit utilizes graphics as well as historical objects from the collections of the State of Delaware to tell the story of Delaware’s wine and spirits trade from the time of European settlement to the present day. Historical items that will be displayed include bottles, jugs and flasks used as containers for wine, spirits and mixers; decanters, goblets and glasses used for serving these beverages; and accessories including a liquor chest, trays, trivets, corks, corkscrews and a bitters shaker.

Highlights from the exhibit will include displays on distillers from the past including Levy & Glosking of Dover which produced fruit brandies and rye whiskey from the late-19th century to the beginning of Prohibition in 1920, Diamond State Distilling Co. of Cheswold which produced apple jack from 1933 to 1948 and William Brown Distiller of Fruit Brandies from west of Felton Kane Wines Liquors compressed which operated from the early-20th century to 1920. Present day spirits-manufacturers featured in the exhibit include Dogfish Head of Milton and Rehoboth Beach, Painted Stave Distilling Co. of Smyrna, Delaware Distilling Co. of Rehoboth Beach and Beach Time Distilling of Lewes.

Research has produced no evidence of Delaware wine-making for commercial purposes until the 1993 opening of Nassau Valley Vineyards located near Lewes. The exhibit will include information on that vineyard as well as other present-day Delaware wineries including Pizzadili Vineyard and Winery in Felton, Harvest Ridge Winery in Marydel and Fenwick Wine Cellars in Selbyville.

“Wine and Spirits in Delaware: Producing, Preserving, and Presenting” will be on display from April 2, 2016 through Dec. 31, 2016 at the Zwaanendael Museum, located at 102 Kings Highway in Lewes, Del. Museum operating-hours from April 1 to Oct. 31 are Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; and Sundays, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. From Nov. 1 through March 31, museum operating-hours are Wednesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public. For additional information, call 302-645-1148.

Zwaanendael Museum side view2 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.

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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Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs to sponsor 19 special programs during April 2016

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Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs to sponsor 19 special programs during April 2016

poe

The writings of Edgar Allan Poe will be explored at The Old State House on April 2.

(DOVER, Del.—March 11, 2016)—During the month of April 2016, the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs will be offering 19 special programs at sites across the state. Except for the April 17 lecture at the Hale-Byrnes House, all programs are free and open to the public.

Highlights of the month include “An Afternoon with Edgar Allan Poe,” an interactive program featuring portrayals of characters from the author’s short stories “The Raven” and “The Tell-Tale Heart,” plus readings of selected poems. The program will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 2 at The Old State House located at 25 The Green in Dover. Due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-744-5054.

Delaware’s long-standing connection to the Netherlands—which stretches back in time to the state’s first European colony, Swanendael, established by the Dutch in 1631 in present-day Lewes—will be explored in three programs that will take place at the Zwaanendael Museum, located at 102 Kings Highway in Lewes.

From Thursday to Saturday, April 7 to 16, the museum will feature Dutch games, crafts and a display of Delftware ceramics as part of the Lewes Tulip Celebration, a city-wide series of activities celebrating Lewes’ Dutch roots. On Saturday, April 16, the museum will celebrate Dutch-American Friendship Day which commemorates April 19, 1782, the day that John Adams, who would later become the second president of the United States, was received by the States General in The Hague and recognized as Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of America. It was also the day that the house he had purchased at Fluwelen Burgwal 18 in The Hague was to become the first American embassy in the world. Finally, on Saturday, April 30, the museum will present King’s Day, a celebration of the birthday of King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands.

landing

“Landing of the DeVries Colony at Swaanendael, Lewes, Delaware 1631” by Stanley M. Arthurs. Courtesy of the permanent collection of the University of Delaware. Delaware’s Dutch heritage will be explored in three programs at the Zwaanendael Museum during April 2016.

Lastly, the Delaware Quilt Documentation Project, a collaboration between the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs and the University of Delaware, will be holding a quilt documentation day on Saturday, April 30 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Lewes Presbyterian Church located at 133 Kings Highway in Lewes. Owners of quilts made before 1950 are encouraged to bring their quilts to this session which is designed to record the rich tradition of quilt-making in Delaware.

quilt

Volunteers cataloging a quilt at an earlier Quilt Harvest Day.

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

Saturday, April 2, 2016

“Lyrics That Make You Laugh.” Humorous songs have been popular since the beginning recorded sound. Guided tours will spotlight these delightful tunes 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, April 2, 2016

“An Afternoon with Edgar Allan Poe.” Experience Poe’s writings in this interactive program which features portrayals of characters from “The Raven” and “The Tell-Tale Heart” plus readings of selected poems. 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.

Wednesday April 6, 2016

“1770–1773: Early in the Revolutionary Decade.” Lecture by historic-site interpreter Bob Vander Decker. Part four 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.

Wednesdays April 6, 13, 20 and 27, 2016

“Watercolor Wednesdays.” Explore the hues of the John Dickinson mansion, learn about 18th-century paint colors and paint a scene. 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, April 7, 2016

“His Majesty’s Sloop DeBraak.” Lecture by historic-site interpreter Tom Pulmano explores the DeBraak, a British warship that was escorting and protecting a convoy of British and American merchant ships en route to the United States when it was capsized and lost off the Delaware coast on May 25, 1798. Part two of the four-part Coffee-Hour Lecture Series. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. 5:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Thursday–Saturday, April 7–16, 2016

Lewes Tulip Celebration. City-wide series of activities including tours and displays at the Zwaanendael Museum. Sponsored by the Lewes Chamber of Commerce. Downtown Lewes. 302-645-8073.

Saturday, April 9, 2016

Literary Reading. Featuring Delaware writers Liz Dolan, Larry Kelts, Maria Masington, Phillip Bannowsky, Jim Bourey and more. Part of the statewide Delaware Literary Reading Series 2016. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Program at 1 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 April 8, 2016.

Saturday, April 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. 302-739-3277.

Thursday, April 14, 2016

“A Night of Delaware Poetry.” In celebration of National Poetry Month, historic-site interpreter Courtney Lynahan will explore the lives and read poems of esteemed Delaware poets including Solomon Gibbs. Part three of the four-part Coffee-Hour Lecture Series. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. 5:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Saturday, April 16, 2016

Dutch-American Friendship Day. Discover Delaware's Dutch roots and learn how that connection is alive today. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Saturday, April 16, 2016

“Marquette Shaw: A Delaware Poet for All Seasons.” Poet, singer, dancer and actor, Marquette Shaw will entertain audiences with his unique rendition of all things Delaware. 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.

Sunday, April 17, 2016

“Documenting Historic Structures: John Dickinson Plantation.” Lecture by Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs historian Madeline Dunn on the home of the “Penman of the Revolution.” Part one of the series, “This Place Matters: Talks About Delaware Places and Spaces,” presented in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the passage of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Hale-Byrnes House, 606 Stanton-Christiana Road, Newark. 4–6 p.m. Admission charge includes refreshments. 302-543-5723.

Thursday, April 21, 2016

“Who is Louis McLane?” Program by historic-site interpreter Tom Welch on Delaware native Louis McLane, the son of a Revolutionary War hero who served in the administrations of multiple U.S. presidents. Final segment of the four-part Coffee-Hour Lecture Series. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. 5:30 p.m. 302-744-5054.

Friday, April 22, 2016

Earth Day at the John Dickinson Plantation. Special guided tours explore environmental issues of deforestation, salt-water infiltration and coastal flooding from an 18th-century perspective. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Activities 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, April 30, 2016

King’s Day. Celebration of the birthday of King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands in a program that will also explore royal titles and Delaware's Dutch connection. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Saturday, April 30, 2016

Quilt Documentation Day. Owners of quilts made before 1950 are encouraged to bring their quilts to this session which is designed to record Delaware’s rich tradition of quilt-making. Sponsored by the Delaware Quilt Documentation Project. Lewes Presbyterian Church, 133 Kings Highway, Lewes. 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m. 302-739-6402.

Exhibits and displays, April 2016
In addition to special programming, the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is sponsoring the following exhibits and displays:

Closed Feb. 21, 2016

“World War II Through the Lens of William D. Willis.” Designed by the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the display features photographs taken in Western Europe from 1943-45. From the collections of the State of Delaware. Legislative Hall, 411 Legislative Ave., Dover. Limited visitation hours; call 302-739-9194 before planning a visit. Note: This display has closed.

Closed March 19, 2016

“Delaware and the War of 1812.”Exhibit examines the service and sacrifice of Delawareans of 1812 to 1815, and the important role that the state played in a conflict that helped shaped the development of the United States. 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. Note: This exhibit has closed.

April 2–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 April 17, 2016

“Delaware Mourns Lincoln: A Demonstration of Love and Sorrow.” Utilizing graphics, clothing and memorabilia, the display explores how Delawareans expressed their deep sorrow upon the death of President Abraham Lincoln on April 15, 1865. 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 mid-June 2016

“Called to Service: Women’s Roles During World War II.” Designed by the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the display highlights the contributions of women serving in the army nursing corps and as nurse cadets during World War II. Legislative Hall, 411 Legislative Ave., Dover. Limited visitation hours; call 302-739-9194 before planning a visit.

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

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. 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

“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.

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Historical and Cultural Affairs Newsletter, March 1, 2016 Volume 9, Issue 2

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Historical and Cultural Affairs

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

March 1, 2016 * Volume 9, Issue 2

News

National Women’s History Month events among 21 special programs sponsored by the division during March 2016

Programs on operatic divas, women’s lives at the John Dickinson Plantation and the escape of an enslaved woman among the month’s highlights.

Rosa Ponselle

Operatic soprano Rosa Ponselle will be one of the divas featured at the Johnson Victrola Museum on March 5, 2016.

“Delaware and the War of 1812” exhibit to close on March 19, 2016

Exhibit on display at the Zwaanendael Museum.

Woodburn lit up in blue and green in honor of National Eating Disorders Awareness Week

The theme of the 2016 campaign is “3 Minutes Can Save a Life: Get Screened. Get Help. Get Healthy.”

Go here for more news items …

Help Save Delaware History

Grantham-Edwards-McComb House added to the National Register of Historic Places

Property once owned by Col. Henry S. McComb, one of the founders of the Union Pacific Railroad.

Call for papers: “The Early Colonial Delaware Valley—An Archaeological and Historical Symposium”

Deadline for submission of abstracts: April 22, 2016.

This place matters

Dover Post, Del.—Feb. 14, 2016

Op-Ed on Preservation50 by Kate O'Donnell and Kim Burdick

Preserving the past: The state of historic preservation in Delaware

WDDE Radio, Dover, Del.—Jan. 29, 2016

Article explores the victories and defeats of historic preservation in Delaware.

National Historic Preservation Advocacy Week in Washington, D.C., March 8–10, 2016

Annual gathering promotes sound federal preservation policy and programs.

Middle Atlantic Archaeological Conference, March 10–13, 2016

Event to take place in Ocean City, Md.

Council of American Maritime Museums Annual Conference, April 25–27, 2016

Hosted by the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation, event will take place in Wilmington.

“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.

Media Roundup

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

Kent County genealogy: African American property owners, tenants, 1797

Dover Post, Del.—Feb. 22, 2016

Article on Feb. 13, 2016 program at The Old State House.

Black History Month: Samuel Burris

The Independent, Massillon, Ohio—Feb. 12, 2016

Article on the noted Underground Railroad conductor from Delaware.

Clarksville church rooted in black history

Daily Times, Salisbury, Md.—Feb. 11, 2016

Property is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Articles on “Through the Lens” exhibit at the Seaford Museum

Exhibit of photographs from the state’s William D. Willis collection.

Can you imagine your life as history?

Daily Times, Salisbury, Md.—Feb. 19, 2016

Seaford Museum exhibit offers a snapshot of WWII

Daily Times, Salisbury, Md.—Feb. 18, 2016

Articles on George Washington birthday celebration

Event took place on Feb. 22, 2016 at The Old State House.

First State celebrates first president

Delaware State News, Dover, Del.—Feb. 22, 2016

Delawareans talk up Washington’s birthday

Delaware State News, Dover, Del.—Feb. 20, 2016

Events

Wednesday, March 2

All That Jazz: From the Beginning – Johnson Victrola Museum

Thursday, March 3

Anniversary of the John Dickinson Mansion Fire – John Dickinson Plantation

Friday, March 4

Sculpture by Charles Parks – New Castle Court House Museum

Saturday, March 5

From Prima Donnas to Divas: A Victor Creation – Johnson Victrola Museum

A Woman’s World: Hearth Cooking – John Dickinson Plantation

The Influence of the Shadd Family – The Old State House

Wednesday, March 9

Play That Old-Time Country Music – Johnson Victrola Museum

Leading Causes of the American Revolution—Post-French-and-Indian-War – New Castle Court House Museum

Thursday, March 10

National Harriet Tubman Day and Network to Freedom cancellation-stamp celebration – The Old State House

Thursday–Sunday, March 10–13

Courage and Freedom – The Old State House

Friday, March 11

Concert by the Driven Women – The Old State House

Saturday, March 12

A World Apart: Run for Freedom – John Dickinson Plantation

Demonstrations by the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild – John Dickinson Plantation

Songs of a Faithful People – New Castle Court House Museum

The National Register of Historic Places: A Profile of Sussex County’s Listings – Zwaanendael Museum

Sunday, March 13

Whispers of Angels: A Story of the Underground Railroad – New Castle Court House Museum

Wednesday, March 16

The Minstrel Boy: The Life of John McCormack – Johnson Victrola Museum

Saturday, March 19

A Woman’s World: Journal Making – John Dickinson Plantation

Wednesday, March 23

Celebration of the Life and Times of Fats Waller – Johnson Victrola Museum

Thursday, March 24

Same Old Grind – Abbott’s Mill Nature Center

Friday, March 25

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

Saturday, March 26

A Woman’s World: Watercolors – John Dickinson Plantation

Sunday, March 27

Easter Sunday – Johnson Victrola Museum, Old State House, John Dickinson Plantation, New Castle Court House Museum and the Zwaanendael Museum will be closed

Thursday, March 31

A Night with Edgar Allan Poe – The Old State House

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

Exhibits and displays

Thru March 19

Delaware and the War of 1812 – Zwaanendael Museum

Ongoing

Delaware Mourns Lincoln: A Demonstration of Love and Sorrow – The Old State House

Discovering Delaware’s Maritime Past – Zwaanendael Museum

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

Middletown Goes To War – Middletown Historical Society

Sculpture by Charles Parks – New Castle Court House

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

Simple Machines – John Dickinson Plantation

Through the Lens – Seaford Museum

World War II Through the Lens of William D. Willis – Legislative Hall

Historical and Cultural Affairs

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

Comment (2) Hits: 1863

“George Washington Birthday Celebration” at Dover, Del.’s Old State House on Feb. 22, 2016 Updated

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News Release from the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs

For Immediate Release

“George Washington Birthday Celebration” at Dover, Del.’s Old State House on Feb. 22, 2016

gwash

Portrait of George Washington by Denis A. Volozan which is on display in the Senate chambers of The Old State House.

(DOVER, Del.—Feb. 10, 2016)—On Monday, Feb. 22, 2016 at 1p.m., The Old State House, located at 25 The Green in Dover, Del., will present a “George Washington Birthday Celebration” featuring writings by, and about, the first president, read by historical interpreters and distinguished guests, plus a display of Washington books and memorabilia. Admission is free and open to the public. For additional information, call 302-744-5054.

Selections that will be read during the program are drawn from a wide array of letters and scholarly writings about Washington covering the entirety of his life from his youth when he was raised by a single mother to his final days at Mount Vernon. Participating readers will include Kim Burdick, president of the George Washington Society; Dr. Samuel Hoff, George Washington Distinguished Professor of History and Political Science at Delaware State University; Dr. Stephanie Holyfield, assistant professor of History at Wesley College; Beth Klemstine Jelich, current teacher of "Washington's Crossing" at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Delaware, Dover; Thomas Summers, outreach coordinator for the Delaware Public Archives; Deborah Wool, professor of Curatorial studies at Wesley College; and historical interpreters from The Old State House.

In addition to the readings, the museum will feature a display of memorabilia about Washington from the personal collection of Dr. Hoff and books from the Wesley College Washington Collection. The display will be presented in the Senate chambers of The Old State House which features an imposing portrait of George Washington by Denis A. Volozan.

Update

As an added bonus, at 3 p.m., The Old State House will project live, streaming video of U.S. Sen. Chris Coons reading Washington’s Farewell Address from the floor of the United States Senate in Washington, D.C. Every year since 1896, the Senate has observed Washington's birthday by selecting one of its members, alternating parties, to read the 7,641-word statement in legislative session. Coons will be the first Delaware senator to conduct the reading.

coons

Sen. Chris Coons

Completed in 1791, The Old State House is one of the earliest state-house buildings in the United States, serving as the home of Delaware’s legislature until 1933 when the General Assembly moved to larger quarters in Legislative Hall. The venerable structure now appears as it would have in the late 1700s during the United States’ critical early years as a nation. It features a courtroom, governor’s and county offices and chambers for the state’s Senate and House of Representatives. The building is situated on Dover’s historic Green, a public area designated by William Penn in 1683.

statehouse