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First State National Historical Park adventures

First State National Historical Park Adventures

First State National Historical Park preserves the rich colonial history of Delaware, offering visitors access to key historical sites and scenic outdoor experiences near Wilmington and Dover.

1,200
Acres Protected
15
Miles of Trails
120,000
Annual Visitors
2013
Year Established

About First State National Historical Park

 

First State National Historical Park is a unique multi-site park spanning several locations across Delaware, highlighting the state's critical role in early American history as the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. The park features a combination of historic buildings, colonial-era landscapes, and preserved natural areas. It includes sites such as the New Castle Court House Museum, Fort Christina, the John Dickinson Plantation, and the Old Dover Jail, each providing visitors with a glimpse into colonial life, legal history, and the evolution of Delaware’s governance. Ecologically, the park protects sections of the Delaware River waterfront and adjoining green spaces, showcasing tidal marshes, hardwood forests, and coastal wetlands that provide habitat for various birds, amphibians, and plant species. Visitors can enjoy walking tours, historical reenactments, interpretive programs, and secluded trails along the Brandywine River. Access to the park’s diverse locations encourages exploration of both cultural heritage and natural beauty, blending outdoor recreation opportunities like hiking, birdwatching, and photography with educational experiences. First State National Historical Park serves as a gateway to understanding early American life and the foundational events that shaped Delaware and the nation. The park's visitor appeal lies in its accessible history lessons, peaceful riverside sites, and the ability to explore multiple locations with distinct historic and ecological significance within a compact geographic area.

Highlights

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Fort Christina, the first Swedish settlement in Delaware

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New Castle Court House, a pivotal colonial courthouse and legislative building

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John Dickinson Plantation, home of a Founding Father known as the 'Penman of the Revolution'

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Historic Brandywine Riverwalk trail with scenic river views and wildlife

Notable Natural Features

Fort Christina

Site of the first permanent Swedish settlement in Delaware dating back to 1638, featuring interpretive exhibits and reconstructed elements of the original fort.

New Castle Court House Museum

Historic courthouse where Delaware declared itself independent from Pennsylvania and later ratified the U.S. Constitution.

John Dickinson Plantation

Preserved colonial plantation home of John Dickinson, a prominent American Founding Father and advocate for independence.