Delaware
Delaware may be small in size, but its legacy looms large in the American experiment. As the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, it has long worn its founding title with pride. From colonial crossroads to coastal defenses, hidden rail depots to gilded mansions, this hunt is your invitation to walk in the footsteps of revolutionaries, visionaries, and everyday heroes who shaped the nation’s story.
This guide is part of the Semiquincentennial Series, celebrating 250 years of the United States through a local lens. Inside, you’ll find dozens of destinations across the First State—some familiar, some forgotten—all brought to life through rhyming riddles, historic tales, and the spirit of discovery.
Swedish souvenirs...Blue Hen football...the “Penman of the Revolution”...iron horses...kissing bridges...illustrious illustrators...cast iron architecture...steamers...the CCC...sweet potatoes...horse racing... kit houses...the golden age of motoring…Three Lower Counties...broilers...early aviation... the rise of suburbia…peaches… This book will have you telling stories like a native in no time.
Who was the first Delawarean in the National Baseball Hall of Fame? Revealed. Why is Delaware the only state with a curved boundary? A mystery no more. Why are glass chards embedded in the walls of Nemours mansion? Investigated. Why is Delaware the only state besides Alaska not to have a Carnegie library? Explained. Who is responsible fo the poison candy murders? No one knows.
in print and ebook
Where horses race and crowds convene, A sporting palace once so keen. Du Pont’s dream and racing lore, Betting windows, stakes, and more. Find the track where champions run, Under Delaware’s bright sun.
The du Ponts found powder and built a domain, But one house endured blast and flame. With stone so stout and heritage deep, It watched a dynasty wake from sleep. Where history, chemistry, and legacy meet, Seek the house where the Black Powder beat.
Before the Guard had stripes and rank, These brave old crews patrolled the bank. With diamond trim and brackets bold, They watched the seas from days of old. What once was buried in a storm Now proudly stands in classic form.
All aboard the earliest rail, Where horses led and iron did prevail. The ticket booth, though small and slight, Once launched a journey’s hopeful flight. Seek the spot that rode the rails, Now resting still with storied tales.
They call it Monkey, though no apes run— Just granite blocks and cycling fun. Tour DuPont dared to race it fast, Where zoo paths and roadways once were cast. Belgian blocks that jolt your teeth— The cobblestone kings of the Brandywine Heath.
The canal brought crowds, a town took shape, With dreams so big it bore the state’s nameplate. Now tales of ghosts and hauntings told, Drift through halls once trimmed with gold. Where travelers stayed and spirits may linger, Find the hotel with a phantom’s finger.