Delaware 250 Past Events

When Delaware declared its independence in 1776 it prompted a plethora of changes pertaining to its government and legal system. As the state grew and evolved it reflected on crime and punishment in this new era. One crime that was reviewed by the new government was petit treason, which was treasonous acts committed against a person of authority other than the government. Throughout its history, two Delaware women were tried for petit treason, Catherine Bevan in 1731 and Sarah Kirk in 1787. While their charges were the same, their punishments were not. Join us as we examine documents from the Delaware Public Archives’ collections to discuss these women and the changing legal system of a new Delaware.

Click here to learn more about this virtual event

Presented by: Dana Niemeyer, Delaware Public Archives

About the Speaker: Dana Niemeyer, CA, has worked at the Delaware Public Archives since 2021 and is the Mable Lloyd Ridgley Research Room Supervisor. Ms. Niemeyer graduated from Drexel University with a master’s degree in library and information science. She is currently working on a master’s in history from Indiana University.

Admission is Pay as You Wish! Your donation is greatly appreciated. All proceeds benefit the development of future programming and the preservation of the History Center and its collections. The History Center is home to over 750,000 manuscripts, 100,000 photographs, and 70,000 artifacts. Your donation helps us to preserve and share those resources.

Presentation is via Zoom, and will be recorded and available for 7 days for all registered participants. We will email out a Zoom link the day of the presentation, and email a link to the recording within 24 hours. Note: the Zoom link emailed out the day of the presentation only takes you to the live presentation; the link emailed out the day after will contain the recorded version.

The History Matters Speaker Series is made possible through the generous support of The Haverford Trust Company.

“This lecture will explore the diverse historical perspectives of immigrant experiences in America. González’s work highlights the sacrifices and contributions of immigrant communities to the nation’s development, broadening appreciation for the shared history of all Americans.

Juan González has been a leading voice in journalism and public scholarship for more than fifty years. A longtime columnist for the New York Daily News (1987–2016) and co-host of Democracy Now!, González has earned two George Polk Awards for commentary and numerous national honors. He is the author of five books, including the widely taught classic Harvest of Empire: A History of Latinos in America.

González’s influence extends beyond print and broadcast; his expertise has been featured in dozens of films and documentaries, including PBS’s Latino Americans and CNN’s 1968: The Year That Changed America. He is a founder and past president of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, a member of the New York Journalism Hall of Fame, and a Fellow of the New York Academy of History.

Born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and raised in East Harlem, González received his B.A. from Columbia University.”

“This lecture will explore the diverse historical perspectives of immigrant experiences in America. González’s work highlights the sacrifices and contributions of immigrant communities to the nation’s development, broadening appreciation for the shared history of all Americans.

Juan González has been a leading voice in journalism and public scholarship for more than fifty years. A longtime columnist for the New York Daily News (1987–2016) and co-host of Democracy Now!, González has earned two George Polk Awards for commentary and numerous national honors. He is the author of five books, including the widely taught classic Harvest of Empire: A History of Latinos in America.

González’s influence extends beyond print and broadcast; his expertise has been featured in dozens of films and documentaries, including PBS’s Latino Americans and CNN’s 1968: The Year That Changed America. He is a founder and past president of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, a member of the New York Journalism Hall of Fame, and a Fellow of the New York Academy of History.

Born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and raised in East Harlem, González received his B.A. from Columbia University.”

Update:

You can listen to an audio recording of this event here.

Come join this program presented by Gavin Malone . This program is part of the Archaeological Society of Delaware, Kent County Chapter. Program is free and open to the public.

“To celebrate First State Heritage Park’s 20th anniversary and the 250th anniversary of the nation, 18th Century Market Fair is now the Delaware Heritage Festival!
During this FREE event, walk the same grounds as 18th century markets, suffragists, military mustering and freedom fighters as you interact with and witness performances by talented groups representing Delaware’s history from pre-history to today! From 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on the historic Dover Green, enjoy returning fan favorite performers from our 18th century Market Fair, delicious food, local vendors selling handmade goods, and new groups that are sure to be fun for everyone from the passionate historian to the family looking to get a start on their holiday shopping.
Keep an eye on our website as we update vendors, performers, and more! https://www.destateparks.com/delaware-heritage-festival/”

Come join this program presented by Anne Fenimore . This program is part of the Archaeological Society of Delaware, Kent County Chapter. Program is free and open to the public.

Delawareans are invited to put their First State knowledge to the test during a Statewide Delaware Day Trivia Contest on Thursday, December 4. Doors open at 6:30, with trivia played from 7–8 p.m. The virtual game is easy to join from anywhere using a mobile phone — at home, at work, or alongside friends at one of several community gathering sites across the state.

Six host locations will be open for those who want to celebrate together:

Sussex County: Del Tech – Georgetown Campus – Student Services Center, Building 9, Dining Room, Dewey Beer Company – Harbeson
Kent County: Rail Haus – Dover, Delaware State University – Dover
New Castle County: Autumn Arch Brewery – Newark, University of Delaware – Newark

The first 50 participants to arrive at each site will receive a Delaware 250 swag bag. College campuses will offer free pizza and soda, while brewery locations will feature food and drink specials created for the occasion.

Please note: While in-person events are 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm, the game runs from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm. The Virtual Event will only be live during the game.

Gameplay is simple — participants answer questions individually on their phones or computers, making the contest accessible, fast-paced, and fun. The host sites offer an additional opportunity to connect with neighbors, classmates, and enthusiasts of Delaware history.

Prizes include:
1st Place: $1000
2nd Place: $500
3rd Place: $250
Plus four random $50 door-prize drawings during the game.

Whether joining from home or gathering in person, Delawareans are encouraged to take part in this statewide celebration of history, community, and Delaware pride.

Delawareans are invited to put their First State knowledge to the test during a Statewide Delaware Day Trivia Night on Thursday, December 4, from 7–8 p.m. The virtual trivia game is easy to join from anywhere using a mobile phone — at home or alongside friends at one of several community gathering sites across the state.

A direct link to play will be posted on the Delaware 250 website before the game starts: https://de.gov/deday25trivia.

Six host locations will be open for those who want to celebrate together:

Sussex County
• Del Tech – Georgetown Campus
• Dewey Beer Company – Harbeson

Kent County
• Rail Haus – Dover
• Delaware State University MLK Student Center, Parlor C – Dover

New Castle County
• Autumn Beer Project – Newark
• University of Delaware STAR Campus, FinTech 301– Newark

In-person gatherings will open at 6:30 p.m., with the trivia game running from 7–8 p.m. for all participants.

The first 50 participants to arrive at each site will receive a Delaware 250 swag bag. College campuses will offer free pizza and soda, while brewery locations will feature food and drink specials created for the occasion.

Gameplay is simple — participants answer questions individually on their phones or computers, making the contest accessible, fast-paced, and fun. The host sites offer an additional opportunity to connect with neighbors, classmates, and enthusiasts of Delaware history.

Prizes include:
• 1st Place: $1000
• 2nd Place: $500
• 3rd Place: $250
Plus four random $50 door-prize drawings during the game.

Whether joining from home or gathering in person, Delawareans are encouraged to take part in this statewide celebration of history, community, and Delaware pride.

For more information about Delaware 250 or to learn more about events and other items of interest, visit delaware250.org/.

Delawareans are invited to put their First State knowledge to the test during a Statewide Delaware Day Trivia Night on Thursday, December 4, from 7–8 p.m. The virtual trivia game is easy to join from anywhere using a mobile phone — at home or alongside friends at one of several community gathering sites across the state.

A direct link to play will be posted on the Delaware 250 website before the game starts: https://de.gov/deday25trivia.

Six host locations will be open for those who want to celebrate together:

Sussex County
• Del Tech – Georgetown Campus
• Dewey Beer Company – Harbeson

Kent County
• Rail Haus – Dover
• Delaware State University MLK Student Center, Parlor C – Dover

New Castle County
• Autumn Beer Project – Newark
• University of Delaware STAR Campus, FinTech 301– Newark

In-person gatherings will open at 6:30 p.m., with the trivia game running from 7–8 p.m. for all participants.

The first 50 participants to arrive at each site will receive a Delaware 250 swag bag. College campuses will offer free pizza and soda, while brewery locations will feature food and drink specials created for the occasion.

Gameplay is simple — participants answer questions individually on their phones or computers, making the contest accessible, fast-paced, and fun. The host sites offer an additional opportunity to connect with neighbors, classmates, and enthusiasts of Delaware history.

Prizes include:
• 1st Place: $1000
• 2nd Place: $500
• 3rd Place: $250
Plus four random $50 door-prize drawings during the game.

Whether joining from home or gathering in person, Delawareans are encouraged to take part in this statewide celebration of history, community, and Delaware pride.

For more information about Delaware 250 or to learn more about events and other items of interest, visit delaware250.org/.

Delawareans are invited to put their First State knowledge to the test during a Statewide Delaware Day Trivia Night on Thursday, December 4, from 7–8 p.m. The virtual trivia game is easy to join from anywhere using a mobile phone — at home or alongside friends at one of several community gathering sites across the state.

A direct link to play will be posted on the Delaware 250 website before the game starts: https://de.gov/deday25trivia.

Six host locations will be open for those who want to celebrate together:

Sussex County
• Del Tech – Georgetown Campus
• Dewey Beer Company – Harbeson

Kent County
• Rail Haus – Dover
• Delaware State University MLK Student Center, Parlor C – Dover

New Castle County
• Autumn Beer Project – Newark
• University of Delaware STAR Campus, FinTech 301– Newark

In-person gatherings will open at 6:30 p.m., with the trivia game running from 7–8 p.m. for all participants.

The first 50 participants to arrive at each site will receive a Delaware 250 swag bag. College campuses will offer free pizza and soda, while brewery locations will feature food and drink specials created for the occasion.

Gameplay is simple — participants answer questions individually on their phones or computers, making the contest accessible, fast-paced, and fun. The host sites offer an additional opportunity to connect with neighbors, classmates, and enthusiasts of Delaware history.

Prizes include:
• 1st Place: $1000
• 2nd Place: $500
• 3rd Place: $250
Plus four random $50 door-prize drawings during the game.

Whether joining from home or gathering in person, Delawareans are encouraged to take part in this statewide celebration of history, community, and Delaware pride.

For more information about Delaware 250 or to learn more about events and other items of interest, visit delaware250.org/.

This presentation will cover the most common records used by genealogists while also exploring lesser-known resources that can be invaluable for those researching their family tree to complete an application for the DAR or SAR. Some of these overlooked resources include Supply Tax records, Journal A, SAR membership applications, and Oaths of Allegiance.

Presented by: Joe Sullivan, Delaware Public Archives

The battles of the Revolutionary War have been immortalized in books and films, but rarely do they capture the true nature of 18th-century warfare. As silly as it may seem to march into battle in brightly colored uniforms, all the while your enemy is firing right at you, the combat doctrine of the time was methodical, efficient, and made the best use of the most effective tools available. Flintlock muskets and black powder artillery, while cumbersome by today’s standards, changed the face of warfare and would shape how armies were trained and supplied for years. Join us as we examine the weapons of the American Revolution, how they influenced training and tactics, and how the British and Continental Armies supplied their troops.

Presented by: Joe Sullivan, Delaware Public Archives

This presentation examines how the American Revolution impacted several different groups, Native Americans, women, African Americans and loyalists.

Despite its small size, Delaware made significant contributions to the cause of American independence—far more than a single battle or a midnight ride. During the Revolutionary War, Delaware evolved from being part of a larger colony into an independent state, a transformation driven by the sacrifices and efforts of its citizens and civic leaders. These individuals gave their time, resources, and even their personal safety to support the common cause of American freedom.

Join us as we explore the challenges faced and contributions made by the men and women of Revolutionary Delaware, preserved in the records of the Delaware Public Archives.

Presented by: Joe Sullivan, Delaware Public Archives

Join the Delaware Public Archives and First State Heritage Park for our Colonial Tavern Nights! Staff from First State Heritage Park will be onsite in period costume with historical exhibitions and activities, and the Delaware Public Archives will be giving one of their Tavern Talks:

Despite its small size, Delaware made significant contributions to the cause of American independence—far more than a single battle or a midnight ride. During the Revolutionary War, Delaware evolved from being part of a larger colony into an independent state, a transformation driven by the sacrifices and efforts of its citizens and civic leaders. These individuals gave their time, resources, and even their personal safety to support the common cause of American freedom.

Join us as we explore the challenges faced and contributions made by the men and women of Revolutionary Delaware, preserved in the records of the Delaware Public Archives.

Presented by: Joesph Sullivan, Delaware Public Archives

The battles of the Revolutionary War have been immortalized in books and films, but rarely do they capture the true nature of 18th-century warfare. As silly as it may seem to march into battle in brightly colored uniforms, all the while your enemy is firing right at you, the combat doctrine of the time was methodical, efficient, and made the best use of the most effective tools available. Flintlock muskets and black powder artillery, while cumbersome by today’s standards, changed the face of warfare and would shape how armies were trained and supplied for years. Join us as we examine the weapons of the American Revolution, how they influenced training and tactics, and how the British and Continental Armies supplied their troops.

Register here: Reserve Your Spot – Lock, Stock, & Barrel: Arms & Ammunition of the American Revolution (Virtual) – Zoom

Presented by: Joe Sullivan, Delaware Public Archives

You may have heard that Lewes is the First Town in the First State, but do you know how it got that name? Join Education Director Dawson Gehrke, from Historic Lewes on January 15th to find out how Lewes became Lewes. From a disastrous whaling port established by the Dutch all the back in 1631, to the revolutionary firebrand Caesar Rodney, it’s a story you won’t want to miss.

Registration is suggested, but not required.
Register here: The Founding of Lewes – LibCal – Delaware Libraries

Recently, the “Star Spangled Banner,” our National Anthem, has been a touch stone for civil rights issues and national controversy. Its words were born out of national crisis, written by a man who was himself no stranger to controversy. Delaware Humanities lecturer Eric Mease explores the origin of the song, the author, a few of the controversies, and the times during which our anthem was conceived.

Join us as we help to create a piece of Delaware history: the Delaware panel of America’s Tapestry, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and celebrating the original 13 colonies. Anyone is welcome to add a stitch! No experience required, all materials provided. Skilled embroiderers will be on hand to offer guidance. Stop by and be a part of this monumental commemorative work!

America was founded on the freedom of religion. It was affirmed in the First Amendment to the Constitution. On January 30, 1876, a small group of citizens in Harrington celebrated the opening of “the Little Red Church” as it became known. St. Stephens Episcopal Church was constructed in 1875 and opened its doors on that January day. Today the former church serves as one of the three museums owned by the Greater Harington Historical Society. To mark the 150th anniversary of the building, the society plans an evening of song, displays of original artifacts from the church and tours to commemorate this event. The church recently underwent an extensive restoration, including installation of the stained-glass windows. This event kicks off the museum’s celebration of America 250. The event is free for all. Doors open at 6pm. We hope you will join us for this wonderful evening.

Join the Delaware Public Archives and First State Heritage Park for our Colonial Tavern Nights! Staff from First State Heritage Park will be onsite in period costume with historical exhibitions and activities, and the Delaware Public Archives will be giving one of their Tavern Talks:

In Common Cause: Delaware’s Homefront in the Revolutionary War

Despite its small size, Delaware made significant contributions to the cause of American independence—far more than a single battle or a midnight ride. During the Revolutionary War, Delaware evolved from being part of a larger colony into an independent state, a transformation driven by the sacrifices and efforts of its citizens and civic leaders. These individuals gave their time, resources, and even their personal safety to support the common cause of American freedom.

Join us as we explore the challenges faced and contributions made by the men and women of Revolutionary Delaware, preserved in the records of the Delaware Public Archives.

Presented by: Joe Sullivan, Delaware Public Archives

Chat with the Zwaanendael Museum’s Lead Historical Interpreter and artist Mark Wilson about his illustrations of Black Delawareans who served in the American Revolutionary War. These illustrations are part of a larger art project which highlights uniforms of the Revolutionary period.

Learn about his research, and the service of African Americans on both sides of the war. Illustrations will be on display for public viewing and coloring page versions of the illustrations will be available.
Call 302-645-1148 or email zmuseum@delaware.gov for more information

Swing back to the 1940s with this exclusive Valentine’s Day Sweetheart Dance, proudly presented by First State Heritage Park and the Fort Miles Museum. We invite you to dress in your best and do up your Victory Rolls to join us for a romantic time-traveling evening to 1942! Featuring a themed dinner, period music, and swing dance lessons to help you cut a rug, this will be an evening you and your partner won’t soon forget. Buy your tickets, grab that special someone, and enjoy a night away! This special event fundraiser takes place in the historic venue of Battery 519, constructed to defend Delaware’s coasts during World War II.

Tickets are $90 per person, and your ticket includes your meal, musical entertainments, swing dance lessons, and a guided tour.

Tickets are available here: https://delawarestateparks.reserveamerica.com/tourDetails.do?contractCode=DE&parkId=360108&tourId=152126&cat=1

Focus: Black Abolitionist and their Quaker Allies created a conversation that led to the creation of two major movements and a pathway for the rise of Abraham Lincoln.

REGISTER: https://teenwarehouse.org/community-photo-workshop-registration/

Inspired by federally funded initiatives of the past, Citizen Photographer invites Delaware residents to consider and capture what it means to be a Delawarean at the nation’s 250th anniversary. Three accomplished photographers whose work is represented in the Delaware Art Museum’s collection—Morris Brown II, B. Proud, and Andre’ Wright, Jr.—will lead free photography workshops at Teen Warehouse, Lewes Public Library, and the Smyrna Opera House, supporting participants in exploring this theme. Delawareans can submit up to two photographs for consideration for exhibitions at these three sites. In addition, a juried selection of photographs from all three organizations will be featured in DelArt’s Citizen Artist exhibition, on view April 11-July 19, 2026.

Citizen Photographer provides an opportunity for community members to partake in civic duty and be productive and engaged citizens who shape public perceptions of larger identity. Learn more about the free photography workshops below.

All Delawareans are invited to submit up to two photographs for consideration on this free portal: https://filmfreeway.com/DelArtCitizenPhotographer.

Teen Warehouse
Friday, Feb 13, 2026, Two sessions: 5:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Morris Brown II

New Castle Court House Museum Site Supervisor Juliette Wurm will give an overview about the first 10 Delaware Executives who were called Presidents instead of Governors. This will cover the Revolutionary era and the Early Republic and the sometimes rough times of the Delaware’s Presidents.