Delaware is home to over 100 historical societies, preservation organizations, and heritage groups. From major institutions in Dover and Wilmington to small-town societies preserving local heritage, these organizations maintain vital connections to Delaware's rich past.
Featured Historical Societies
Lewes Historical Society
Location: Lewes, DE
Founded: 1962
Preserves Delaware's first town history from Dutch settlement in 1631
Delaware Agricultural Museum
Location: Dover, DE
Founded: 1980
Documents Delaware's farming heritage and rural life. Collections include antique farm equipment, village of historic buildings, and exhibits on poultry industry that shaped state economy
Delaware Historical Society
Location: Wilmington, DE
Founded: 1864
Preserves First State history through museums, library, and historic sites
Website: dehistory.org
First State Heritage Park
Location: Dover, DE
Founded: 2004
Urban heritage park linking historic sites in Dover's historic district, including the Old State House, Legislative Hall, and other buildings significant to Delaware's role as the First State to ratify the Constitution
Website: history.delaware.gov/firststate
Hagley Museum and Library
Location: Wilmington, DE
Founded: 1957
Preserves original DuPont gunpowder works and early American industrial history. Sprawling site includes mills, workers' community, and du Pont family mansion. The museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore local history through carefully curated exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs
Website: hagley.org
Old New Castle Court House Museum
Location: New Castle, DE
Founded: 1732
Delaware's original colonial capitol and oldest surviving courthouse in state. Interprets colonial government and defines center point of Delaware's unique circular border. The museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore local history through carefully curated exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs
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Submit a Society →Additional Delaware History Resources
- Delaware Historical Society - Statewide history organization
- Delaware State Historic Preservation Office - State historic preservation programs
- Delaware Public Archives - State archives in Dover