Game Night at the Archives

Since its founding in 1864, the Delaware Historical Society (DHS) has acquired nine historic buildings related to Delaware’s past and an extraordinary collection of more than 3 million objects, books, documents, photographs, and maps. We are the only private nonprofit organization with the mission to serve as the statewide organization exploring, preserving, promoting, and sharing Delaware history, heritage, and culture to educate, inspire, and empower people and communities.

As the repository for records of Delaware state and local governments, the Delaware Public Archives contains thousands of documents and other materials that can help with researching one’s genealogical roots. Among these records are census materials, vital statistics including birth, death, and marriage records; tax assessments, probate/estate records, land deeds, and military records. The Delaware Public Archives also preserves a large amount of genealogically related materials that were of private origin. These records include family histories, bible records, church records, manuscript genealogies, and newspapers.

First State Heritage Park, part of the National Parks System, is Delaware’s first urban park without boundaries. This historical park explores the stories of remarkable Delawareans and the lives of ordinary people throughout the history of the First State. The park centers around the historic Dover Green and consists of the John Bell House Interpretive Center and Legislative Hall as well as six partner sites, which includes the Biggs Museum of Art, Woodburn Hall House, and the Johnson Victrola Museum. Costumed interpreters help visitors step back in time with 18th century living history, thematic walking tours, craft workshops, and special events to highlight this historic town!