Incorporated city on Delaware Bay in eastern Sussex County, Delaware, Lewes is one of the leading cities in the Cape Region of the state. It is one of the fastest-growing areas of Delaware and has a population of 2,747. It is also known as the “Delaware City of Summer.”
Located along the King’s Highway, the Zwaanendael Museum is home to artifacts from early European settlers. Visitors will enjoy the architectural influences of the city’s Dutch settlers. There are many things to do and see in Lewes, but walking tours are the best way to explore the city’s history. For example, take a trip down to Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can see hundreds of boats during the summertime.
If you love shopping, Lewes has a variety of stores, including antiques, designer clothes, and handmade jewelry. You’ll find everything from vintage jewelry to cute kitchen wares to bath and beauty items. You’ll also find unique treasures at Treasures, a modern concept store filled with luxury beach wares. Antique lovers will love Lewes Mercantile Antiques, with over 30 vendors selling a wide array of items.
If you’re a history buff, you’ll enjoy the Cannonball House on Front Street, which was built in the mid-1700s. It has served several purposes during the American Revolution and became popular during the British bombardment of Lewes. The Lewes Historical Society has since converted the Cannonball House into a maritime museum filled with artifacts from the Revolutionary War. While you’re visiting the city, you might also enjoy a trip to the historic Lewes Farmers Market, where you can see and interact with locals and learn about the history of the town.
Besides the museums, the town also boasts a variety of unique shops. The Lewes Museum was built to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the European settlement in Delaware. The museum features an exhibit about the history of fishing and the port’s maritime industry. The architects modeled the building after the Dutch city hall in Hoorn, Holland. The museum also houses artifacts from the sunken British warship H.M.B. DeBraak, which was discovered in 1798 but was destroyed during the War of 1812. The Cape Henlopen Lighthouse is a historic landmark that looms over the town.
One interesting historical fact about the town of Lewes is that it was named after the town of Lewes in Sussex, England. William Penn changed the town’s name to Lewes when he acquired the land from the Duke of York. The town’s harbor also played an important role in the town’s early history. You can dine at waterfront restaurants while watching ships sail in the harbor. During the Civil War, Lewes was a vital stop on the Underground Railroad.
In 1846, Joseph Maull served as the state’s 34th governor. He was a physician and a member of the General Assembly. Another notable historical figure of the town is Ebe W. Tunnell, who served as Delaware’s 50th governor from 1897-1901 and was the son of a pharmacist. He later joined his brother-in-law in the drug business in Lewes and later served in the state House of Representatives.