National Delaware Day

A smiling family dressed in colonial-era clothing, standing in front of an iconic Delaware landmark, enjoying a picnic. — National delaware day illustration

Welcome to the delightful and wondrous world of National Delaware Day! This special day celebrates all things Delaware, from its fascinating history to its unique culture. So grab your favorite scrapple sandwich and prepare to be amazed as we dive into the internet history of this fantastic day.

When is Delaware Day?

It's national delaware day on the 13th July.

The Origins of National Delaware Day

National Delaware Day, just like the state itself, is filled with rich history and intriguing tales. It all began on July 13, 2017, when the internet exploded with 117 mentions of this special day. People from all across the nation were excited to show their love and appreciation for Delaware.

Delaware, also known as the First State, has a lot to offer. From its beautiful beaches to its charming small towns, there's something for everyone. Not to mention, it's the home of tax-free shopping! Who doesn't love saving a few bucks?

Celebrating National Delaware Day

Celebrating National Delaware Day is as easy as eating a slice of scrapple. Get together with your loved ones and indulge in some delicious food that's unique to the state. Whether it's a mouthwatering crab cake or a warm apple cider donut, let your taste buds take you on a culinary adventure.

If you're feeling sporty, organize a game of horseshoes or try your hand at paddleboarding. Delaware offers plenty of outdoor activities to keep you entertained.

Delaware Fun Fact

Did you know that Delaware is home to the famous Funland amusement park? Located in Rehoboth Beach, Funland has been providing endless fun and excitement since 1962. It's the perfect place to visit and unleash your inner child.

History behind the term 'Delaware'

1609

European Exploration

In 1609, English explorer Henry Hudson sailed into Delaware Bay, naming it after Thomas West, 3rd Baron De La Warr, who was the first English governor of Virginia. The name 'Delaware' was bestowed upon the bay, and it eventually came to represent the surrounding territories as well.

1609

Exploration by Henry Hudson

In 1609, English explorer Henry Hudson sailed along the eastern coast of North America and encountered the Delaware Bay. He named it after Thomas West, the 3rd Baron De La Warr, who was the first English colonial governor of Virginia.

1638

The Arrival of Swedish Settlers

In 1638, Swedish settlers arrived in the region known today as Delaware, establishing the first European settlement in the area. Led by Peter Minuit, the group named the settlement 'New Sweden' after their home country. This marked the beginning of European influence on the area.

1609

The Arrival of Henry Hudson

In 1609, the term 'Delaware' first enters the history books when the English explorer Henry Hudson sailed into what is now known as Delaware Bay. Hudson, in search of a Northwest Passage to Asia, encountered the indigenous Lenape people who resided in the region.

1664

The British Takeover

In 1664, the British successfully took control of the New Sweden settlement and renamed it 'New Castle.' This was a result of the Second Anglo-Dutch War when the British captured the Dutch colony of New Netherland, which included the Delaware region. The area became part of the British colonies in America.

1631

Swedish Settlement

In 1631, the Swedish established the first European settlement in Delaware. They named it 'Delaware' after the bay, which in turn was named after Thomas West, 3rd Baron De La Warr, who was the first English colonial governor of Virginia. The Swedish settlement, known as Fort Christina, marked the beginnings of European presence in Delaware.

1664

Colonial Era

In 1664, the English took control of the Dutch colony of New Netherland, which included Delaware, and renamed it New York. However, in 1682, the Duke of York granted William Penn the territory that would become Pennsylvania, which included Delaware. Penn established a separate government and named the area 'Delaware' in honor of the bay.

1610

Naming of Cape De La Warr

In 1610, Samuel Argall, an English naval captain, sailed into the Delaware Bay and named the cape at its mouth Cape De La Warr, in honor of Thomas West. The cape later became known as Cape Henlopen and is located in present-day Delaware.

1638

Settlement of New Sweden

In 1638, Swedish colonists under the leadership of Peter Minuit established a settlement called New Sweden on the west bank of the Delaware River. This marked the first European settlement in the area that would later become the state of Delaware.

1776

American Revolutionary War

During the American Revolutionary War in 1776, Delaware declared independence from British rule, making it one of the original thirteen colonies to do so. The state played a significant role in the fight for independence and later ratified the United States Constitution, becoming the first state to do so on December 7, 1787.

1682

William Penn's Grant

In 1682, William Penn, an English Quaker, received a charter from King Charles II granting him land in the New World. Penn called the territory 'Pennsylvania' in honor of his father. However, within Pennsylvania, there was a distinct lower three-county region which later became Delaware. This area was known as the 'Three Lower Counties' or 'The Territories.'

1664

British Control

In 1664, the British took control of the Dutch colony of New Netherland, which included Delaware, and established the Province of New York. Delaware became a part of this new British territory. Over time, as the British influence grew, the name 'Delaware' became widely recognized and associated with the region.

1704

The Separation from Pennsylvania

In 1704, the three lower counties of Pennsylvania (Delaware) separated from the rest of the state and established their own assembly. They named their new colony 'Delaware' in honor of Thomas West, 3rd Baron De La Warr, who was the first English colonial governor of Virginia. Delaware became a separate entity with its own government.

1664

British takeover of New Sweden

In 1664, the British took control of New Sweden and the surrounding area, including present-day Delaware. They renamed the region as the Delaware Colony, in reference to the Delaware Bay.

1802

Separation from Pennsylvania

In 1802, Delaware separated from Pennsylvania, becoming an independent entity. It officially became known as the 'Delaware State' instead of 'The State of Delaware' in 1950 to avoid confusion with the city of Wilmington, which is also located within the state.

1776

Independence from Britain

In 1776, Delaware declared independence from British rule, becoming one of the original thirteen colonies to ratify the United States Declaration of Independence. This event firmly cemented 'Delaware' as a significant term representing a distinct region within the newly formed United States of America.

1787

Delaware Ratifies the U.S. Constitution

In 1787, Delaware became the first state to ratify the United States Constitution. This important step in the nation's history solidified Delaware's position as a pivotal state and showcased its commitment to the principles and ideals of the newly formed nation. The term 'Delaware' became synonymous with the state's contribution to the American experiment in democracy.

1776

The Declaration of Independence

In 1776, Delaware played a significant role in the American Revolution. It became the first state to ratify the United States Constitution and join the Union. Delaware's pivotal vote paved the way for the birth of the United States of America. The state became known as 'The First State' due to its early adoption of the Constitution.

1959

Official State Name

On January 17, 1959, the General Assembly of Delaware officially adopted a concurrent resolution establishing the state's official name as 'The State of Delaware.' This resolution clarified the state's full name, highlighting its unique identity within the United States.

1776

Delaware's independence

On June 15, 1776, the Delaware Assembly declared itself independent from both Great Britain and the Pennsylvania colony. Delaware became the first state to ratify the United States Constitution on December 7, 1787, earning the nickname 'The First State.'

1909

Official adoption of the name Delaware

In 1909, the Legislature of the State of Delaware officially adopted the name 'Delaware' as the state's official name. The name pays homage to the Delaware Native American tribe that once inhabited the region.