IMPORTANT American history: First State to ratify the constitution = Delaware – signed at a local water hole of the day – the Golden Fleece Tavern
Capitol experience – visit two capitol buildings – one built in 1777, one in 1933
Living History: “Spirits of the Green" historically attired characters throughout the area
Audio/self-guided tours throughout the attractive, walkable areas (nearly 30 spots to visit)
Easy to drive to coastal cities with beaches for all to enjoy
The First State Heritage Park at Dover is for Everyone: American Heritage, Family fun, Variety of things to do and see, adventure for many -- lantern walks, cemetery tours, First Saturday events year-long.
Glimpse of Spring & Summer Programs:
Except where noted otherwise, all programs are free.
March 3: Red Hannah” – The Story of Delaware’s Whipping Post
12:30 – 1:30 p.m. at Legislative Hall
She withstood the test of time and her specter looms large over Delaware’s criminal history. She ignored the cries of the men, women, and children who were forced into her embrace. She counted many lashes, witnessed many tears, and faded one day into the night. However, her Legacy remains and she has but one name – Red Hannah. Revisit her history and hear her stories in this program.
March 3: Launch of: A Passage to Freedom (Walking Tour) 2:00-3:00 p.m. –
When the Declaration of Independence was read aloud from the site of the present day State House, there were seventeen enslaved African-Americans living in homes around The Green. However, their struggle for independence would last almost another 100 years. Hear the forgotten stories of Dover’s African-Americans’
April 7: Revolutionary Dover (Walking Tour)
2:00-3:00 p.m.
Tories, Whigs, militia, and insurrection. Dover was a hotbed of revolutionary and loyalist activity during the struggle for American Independence. Meet on the Dover Green to revisit the Revolution.
MAY 5: Old Dover Days
May’s First Saturday coincides with Old Dover Days. Held annually for nearly 75 years throughout the Historic District of Dover and surrounded by Colonial and Victorian buildings, Old Dover Days celebrates the history of the Capital of the First State. History comes alive with maypole dancing, Colonial craft demonstrations, walking tours, a parade, craft fair, and much more. While activities are spread throughout the city, most events take place on the Dover Green and at Legislative Mall. In conjunction with Old Dover Days, the First State Heritage Park and its partner sites offer a variety of special programs and activities.
A Trip Back in Time
The First State Heritage Park recreates lost memories for visitors on May 5 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. when it recaptures the Dover Green of 1915. Stanley Steamers from the Auburn Heights Collection (the largest single collection of Stanley Steamers anywhere) will offer visitors rides around the Green in these beautiful, early-twentieth century automobiles powered by steam, not gasoline. Also setting the mood will be brass band and barbershop quartet music, croquet matches, and more.
For more information on this destination, high resolution images, press kits or interview schedules, please contact Jessi LaCosta, 443.569.0736/
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