Marking 250 Years

A journey through Delaware’s role in shaping America’s past, present, and future

BY KATIE PIERCE

AS ITS RESIDENTS KNOW, Delaware is a unique place— geographically small, but a giant in tourism, industry, agriculture, arts, and history. A drive from north Wilmington to the south of Fenwick Island can take two hours on a traffic-free day, or the better part of a month with stops to take in all the state has to offer: a new exhibit at the Delaware Art Museum, a show at the historic Milton Theatre, a picnic at Trap Pond State Park, a journey into the past at Fort Miles.

And as the country approaches the United States’s Semiquincentennial—the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, in July 2026—Delaware’s residents and visitors will have even more chances to explore the First State and its role in the nation’s history and future.

Delaware 250, the State’s official entity overseeing this historic anniversary, encourages businesses, tourism groups, and any organization with a stake in Delaware’s past, present, or future to consider how they might mark this important milestone.

“This is a once-in-a-generation event,” says Margaret Hughes, Delaware 250 coordinator, “and one that offers Delaware’s business and tourism groups an opportunity to connect with their communities through a deeper appreciation for Delaware’s history among state residents and visitors.”

Traveling through Delaware brings the past to life. The estate and exhibits at Hagley showcase American innovation. The John Dickinson Plantation shares the story of the “Penman of the Revolution,” who wrote of liberty even as he held enslaved people in bondage. Following the Harriet Tubman Byway, visitors can trace the path of the woman who led so many people to freedom.

“Delaware’s history is a part of what makes it such a special state to visit,” notes Jessica Welch, director of the Delaware Tourism Office. “With unique attractions such as the Cooch’s Bridge Historic Site in Newark, the celebration of Separation Day in New Castle, and the historic homes of Odessa, traces of the Revolutionary War can be found in Delaware. Throughout the state, destinations like the historic capital of Dover, the Nanticoke Indian Museum in Millsboro, and more hidden gems are just waiting to be explored as we celebrate our nation’s founding.”

Delaware’s vitality is rooted not only in its past, but in its present. From the vibrancy of the Wilmington Riverfront to the beauty of the bays and beaches, from museums and theatres to the biking and hiking trails that line the state, Delaware’s innovations and destinations are around every corner. The 250th anniversary offers Delawareans and visitors alike an opportunity to explore, engage, and celebrate the Small Wonder.

“1776 is a beginning, not the end of our American story,” says Hughes. “This historic anniversary is a chance to reflect on where we’ve been and, as Delawareans and Americans, to continue to strive toward a more perfect Union.”

For more information about ways to get involved with Delaware 250, visit heritage.delaware.gov/DE250 or contact Margaret Hughes at (302) 744-5067 or Margaret.Hughes@delaware.gov. For all press inquiries about Delaware 250, please contact Katie Pierce at (302) 7445076 or Catherine.Pierce@delaware.gov.