A trail of American history

A 3 day tour of Delaware
from our Northeastern issue,
Spring 2012.

	Photo: Delaware Tourism Office
	Hands-on history and a ferry ride are among the offerings at Fort Delaware.

This three-day tour in Delaware weaves together tales of Swedish colonists, patriots, religion and small town life.

Day One

Begin your group’s tour at Fort Miles Historical Area, located in oceanfront Cape Henlopen State Park in Lewes.

During World War II, Fort Miles provided protection for the Delaware River, which was a critical coastal trading route for Wilmington and neighboring areas. Enjoy guided tours by uniformed interpreters or climb a concrete spotting tower offering vistas of the seascape and surrounding locale.

Next, experience salt air, sun and the serenity of Rehoboth Beach. Dubbed the “Nation’s Summer Capital,” visitors descend upon the beach yearly for vacations and relaxing getaways. Be sure also to visit the Rehoboth Beach Museum, housed in the town’s former Ice House.

Then, take a stroll with dignitaries on the Governor’s Walk in Milton. Located in the heart of this riverside community, Governor’s Walk honors the five local residents who served as state governors. 

After completing your walk, visit the Milton Museum or stop for a treat at King’s Ice Cream, located in one of the oldest commercial structures in the state.

Day Two

The first stop is a visit to the symbolic heart of Delaware — The Green in Dover. 

Established by William Penn in 1683, The Green is the seat of county government and center for community life since Colonial days. Must-see historic structures in Dover are many, and include the Old State House, home of Delaware’s legislature from its completion in 1791 to 1933. 

Rejoice with more history at Barratt’s Chapel in Frederica. Constructed in 1780, this simple-but-stately brick house of worship is recognized as “The Cradle of American Methodism.” History states that Thomas Coke and Francis Asbury met in 1784 to plan for the establishment of the Methodist Church as an independent denomination.

Next, celebrate the history of small town life at the Smyrna Museum Complex. Owned and operated by the Duck Creek Historical Society, the complex comprises two historic buildings: the Plank House, a small frame structure representative of 18th-century architecture, and the Barracks, constructed in the 1790s and including furnishings dating from the early Federal to late Victorian eras. 

While in town, take time to see the restored Old Town Hall and Opera House. Constructed in 1869, such luminaries as Frederick Douglass and perennial presidential candidate William Jennings Bryan once occupied the stage.

Day Three

Visit Holy Trinity Church, a national landmark in Wilmington. 

Erected in 1698–99, the site provides the perfect starting point for learning about the Swedish colonists who established Delaware’s first permanent European settlement in 1638.

Nearby is Kalmar Nyckel Shipyard, where groups can visit the New Sweden Centre to learn more about the pioneering settlers. Visit Kalmar Nyckel, a replica of the ship of the same name that landed the first settlers of New Sweden nearby at present-day Fort Christina Park. 

Next, travel to Fort Delaware, a top group travel destination in the state. Enjoy the half-mile ferry ride from Delaware City to Pea Patch Island, arriving to experience a day of hands-on history. Help the blacksmith hammer out new cannon parts and be there when the eight-inch Columbiad gun fires a live gunpowder charge. 

The last stop is the Wilmington & Western Railroad. 

Delaware’s Red Clay Valley provides the backdrop for this fun and educational experience. Established in 1867, the Wilmington & Western is a living link to the days when Delaware’s economic fortunes were tied to rail lines.

Delaware Tourism Office
(302) 672-6804
www.visitdelaware.com

Offer your Delaware itineraries to the editor.
Mail: 2465 112th Ave.
Holland, MI 49424
Fax: (616) 393-0085
Phone: 1-800-767-3489 between 8am - 5pm, EST.

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