2026-02-18 07:24:50
After three days of discussion, on December 7, 1787, members of the Delaware Legislative Council gathered in the Golden Fleece Tavern in Dover and unanimously voted in favor of the newly written United States Constitution — making Delaware the first state to ratify the Constitution. The state still celebrates December 7 as Delaware Day and the origin of its nickname: “The First State.”
Delaware’s “firsts” did not start in 1787. Until June 15, 1776, New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties were considered the “lower counties” of Pennsylvania. On June 15, 1776, the Delaware Assembly declared Delaware independent from Pennsylvania and separate from Great Britain — three weeks before the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Today, the anniversary of Separation Day is celebrated each June in Historic New Castle.
Delaware’s history is long and layered. The Lenape and Nanticoke people have inhabited the lands of Delmarva for millennia and contribute to the region’s cultural richness today. Swedish, Dutch, and English settlement shaped the state through place names and architecture still seen across Delaware. Slavery is part of Delaware’s past, as is resistance and perseverance. The Underground Railroad operated throughout the state, and Black churches in Delaware played a central role in forming the first independent Black denomination in the United States.
Although one of the original thirteen colonies, Delaware is now a vibrant and welcoming destination, drawing visitors for natural beauty, charming towns, and lively cultural scenes. Exploring Delaware’s past offers insight into how history continues to shape The First State’s future.
Plan your own revolutionary trip to some of Delaware’s most iconic historic sites and museums.
Northern Delaware
Explore the New Castle Court House Museum, which served as Delaware’s first court and state capitol. Take a walking tour through Historic New Castle, including visits to the Amstel House and the Dutch House. For a colonial-inspired meal, visit Jessop’s Tavern and Colonial Restaurant, within walking distance of Historic New Castle.
Central Delaware
Visit First State Heritage Park on The Green in Dover for walking tours of the Old State House and John Bell House. These sites highlight Delaware’s role in the Revolutionary War and daily life in the 18th century. Just outside downtown Dover, tour the John Dickinson Plantation, where stories are shared about tenant farmers, indentured servants, and free and enslaved Black men, women, and children who lived and labored on the property.
Southern Delaware
Learn about Delaware’s Dutch heritage and one of the state’s oldest towns at the Zwaanendael Museum and the Lewes Historical Society. Both offer walking tours throughout the year. From Lewes, head west to Millsboro to visit the Nanticoke Indian Museum, Delaware’s only Native American museum. Displays include thousands of handcrafted artifacts, including arrowheads, pottery, axe hammers, and other items, many passed down through Nanticoke Elders.
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