The Lewes Historical Society, Lewes, Delaware

From Captain Kidd and the eternal rhythms of the tides to the salty courage of the Delaware pilots and the nationally-recognized architecture of our historic district – Lewes’ past is colorful, unique and proud. The ancient beam of old Cape Henlopen Light still haunts the local seas and local imaginations in “Delaware’s Saltiest Town.”

The Lewes Historical Society began in 1961 as local residents identified a need to preserve Lewes’ architectural heritage and for an organization to act as a steward for Lewes’ past – a history that stretches back to humble Dutch origins in 1631. The Society has been recognized as one of Delaware’s greatest assets and has been honored for our efforts by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and by the American Association for State & Local History. The Society celebrates the heritage of Lewes — “The First Town in The First State!”

Winterthru Museum – Wilmington, Delaware

Winterthru Museum – Wilmington, Delaware Pronounced “winter-tour” this house will take you back to see the items that were made or used in America between about 1640 and 1860.  Displayed in this 175 room house you will see what collector and horticulturist Henry Francis du Pont loved and wanted to share with the public. There… [Continue Reading]

Amstel House Opening Day, New Castle, Delaware

The Amstel House museum is just one of the three museums the New Castle Historical Society has to offer. It focuses on Colonial period artifacts and re-tellings. Once an actual house, we include genuine things like place settings at the table and pots and pans in the kitchen. This interactive type of experience is great for kids and adults to feel as though they really have stepped back in time.

The Dutch House Museum Opening Day, New Castle Delaware

The Dutch House museum is just one of the three museums offered by the New Castle Historical Society. It displays unique artifacts and holds stories of a 17th century artisan and his family. A much smaller space than the Society’s other museums, the Dutch House is intimate and a fun and exciting place for all.

Pencader Museum and Research Center, Newark, Delaware

The displays at the Pencader Museum highlight our military heritage from the American Revolution to the war in Afghanistan.
The Native American display showcases handmade items made by a local Lenni Lenape.

Early occupations in Delaware feature farm implements, household items, an 1890′s Pump Organ, office equipment including a manual typewriter and adding machine.

Documented slave register for New Castle County, a “please touch” area for children, geocaching, 18th century maps and landowners in Pencader Hundred, and a wealth of genealogy information on Delaware families.