The city of New Castle is situated in the state of Delaware, about six miles south of Wilmington. The Delaware River runs through the city. New Castle is home to several colleges and universities, as well as a zoo. The city is a popular destination for travelers, and has a rich history. It has a lively arts scene, as well as many attractions. Residents enjoy dining, shopping, and exploring the local area. If you’re considering a visit, you should read more about New Castle Delaware.
The town’s cobblestone streets and historic homes have drawn comparisons to Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia. You’ll find five museums in town, including the Old Library Museum, which has thousands of classic books, and the Velocipede Museum, which features vintage tricycles. There are also 15 blocks designated as National Historic Landmarks, so home renovations must be done carefully. But, if you’re looking for a fun place to spend your free time, New Castle has plenty to offer.
Battery Park is another area worth exploring, which is a waterfront park. Named for the fortified docks on the Delaware River, this park was also the site of William Penn’s first landing in America. When water levels are low, you can see the docks from the park. The park’s historic buildings were used as a major trading center during the early years of the city. There’s also a historic marker located at the intersection.
For history buffs, there’s the Amstel House, which is a 1730s early Georgian mansion that’s been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The historic landmark also marks the town’s first formal preservation effort, which was officially launched in 1931. In October, the Amstel House is one of the stops on a popular haunted house tour. You can also check out the New Castle Presbyterian Church, which was founded in 1657 as a Dutch Reformed house of worship. In fact, it was one of seven churches that organized the first Presbytery in the United States in 1706. The church has been restored in its original style after World War II.
While visiting New Castle, do not miss the Old Court House Museum. This imposing structure dates back to the 17th century and was home to the colonial assembly for the state from 1732 to 1777. During your visit, don’t forget to check out its beautiful gardens. You may be surprised by the sheer number of plants that thrive in this historic site. You may even get to meet some of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.
Before Pennsylvania broke up, New Castle was the center of government. The conservative Quaker influences were uncomfortable for Delaware residents, and they began petitioning for their own legislature. In 1704, Delaware officially broke away from Pennsylvania. In the 17th century, New Castle was made the colonial capital of the state, and the city became an ideal location for lawyers and judges. After the 1704 breakup, the town was the eastern terminus of the New Castle and Frenchtown Railroad, which opened in 1832 with horse-drawn rail cars. The railroad’s track was converted to steam power in 1832.