Dover’s Role in the American Revolution: Key Historic Sites

Editor: Kirandeep Kaur on Nov 06,2024

 

Nailed in Delaware, Dover was an important part of the American Revolution, defining the bigger fight for freedom through defining moments and heroes who were left to define a generation. This tour goes into the best Revolutionary War attractions in Dover, Delaware, which will give one a window into the past and give Dover its deserved influence over America. For anybody with a passion for U.S. history, this exploration of Dover's war years will be educational and thrilling.

1. Old State House

  • Address: 25 The Green, Dover, DE

Old State House is a historic landmark of Dover's Revolutionary War history. It was Delaware's first and only capitol building from 1791 to 1933. Although constructed just after the Revolution, its historical significance is immense since it was the meeting place for Delaware's legislature in the United States' early years. While passing by the corridors, you have an absolute feeling that whatever was on that paper on the other side was presented rather sharply, and the stiff decisions of it are sufficient proof that this argument has borne fruit with the ratification being finalized to accept the constitution of the United States. Where Delaware makes history marks itself into the date as that is the only place this new formation was made legal. And such entered into its annals forever on December 7, 1787.

What to See:

  • Explore the architecture, which is representative of late 18th-century public buildings.
  • View the chambers where debates on independence and governance took place.
  • Learn about Dover’s journey toward becoming the first state in the union.

2. The Green – A Central Gathering Place

canon at a palace at the time of revolution

  • Location: Central Dover, DE

Known as "The Green," this lovely square has been the heart of Dover's political and social life since the 1700s. It has been a gathering place during the American Revolution for patriots, and many very important events, including troop movements and public readings of revolutionary news, occurred in this square. Standing on The Green today, one can almost feel the presence of patriots who called for freedom from British rule.

Things to see: 

  • Monuments and plaques commemorating the Delaware State's role in the Revolution.
  • Guided tours giving detailed accounts of all events.
  • Regular reenactments and events, that bring the Revolutionary War to life.

3. John Dickinson Plantation

  •  Location: 340 Kitts Hummock Rd, Dover, DE

Known as the "Penman of the Revolution," John Dickinson was one of the most important Founding Fathers to make contributions to early American political thought. His writing inspired many people to take up the revolutionary cause, and his plantation is a glimpse into his life, work, and influence. Despite his opposition to violent revolt, Dickinson was deeply committed to the cause of independence and an important figure in Delaware's history of the Revolutionary War.

What to See:

  • The mansion that has been restored and gives you the chance to view the exhibits of artifacts related to the Revolution.
  • Exhibits regarding Dickinson's life, his writings, and the impact he had on American independence.
  • The grounds surrounding the estate used to help depict agricultural life during this period.

4. Delaware Public Archives – Revolutionary War Documents

  • Location: 121 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd N, Dover, DE

An archaeologist of history, with an area of fondness in military exploits, would love Delaware's Public Archives in Dover. There, records detailing the state of Delaware's participation in this battle from correspondence between great political leaders and military documents that describe the role Delaware troops played in almost every battle would be in place.

What to See:

  • Original letters and documents from John Dickinson and many other Delaware figures.
  • Maps and records detailing troop movements and military actions.
  • Preservation efforts that make such treasured histories accessible.

5. Christ Episcopal Church - A WW II Community Center

Christ Episcopal Church is among Dover's oldest structures; established in 1734 it played a significant role in the American Revolution. A community center where various citizens would gather; actually several revolutionaries were known to meet at this church to deliberate the freedoms they were fighting for making it a key location for early revolutionary thought and action in the region.

Must-See's: 

  • The old, antiquated building, now preserved, of the 18th century.
  • Places of the historical graveyard of all those people who fought in the wars during the years of Revolutionary War.
  • Regular historical walking tours that trace the history of the different wars related to the church through Dover's history.

6. Johnson Victrola Museum – The Revolutionary War Era Artifacts

  • Address: 375 S New St, Dover, DE

While the museum can be considered a tribute towards the Victrola primarily, the Johnson Victrola Museum also houses dates back to artifacts and other materials from the Revolutionary War era. This lesser-known and named after Eldridge Reeves Johnson museum can be worth visiting in Dover for somebody interested in the history behind the town.

What To See:

  • Revolutionary War-era artifacts and letters
  • Information on the technological revolution of the time
  • Special exhibits sometimes highlighting Dover's rich past, including some Revolutionary ties.

7. Delaware State Visitor Center

  • Location: 400 Federal St, Dover, DE

The Delaware State Visitor Center is a great place to start any tour of the history of Dover. They have all the maps and guides you need to know about the Revolutionary War sites available in the city and staff on hand who can provide additional information about other lesser-known sites so that you get the most out of your tour of Dover's American Revolution historic sites.

What to see:

  • Delaware Revolutionary War history in informative displays and exhibitions.
  • Brochures and detailed maps of historical sites to view in Dover
  • Knowledgeable guides with special insight and recommendations.

Dover Long Living History in America

Dover, Delaware, is viewed as a strong symbol of early American patriotism and perseverance. Its old buildings and museums speak of the courage and conviction that led to a new nation.

Whether a history buff or just an inquisitive traveler, any trip to these sites of the Revolutionary War in Dover will ensure that you will learn much more about the lives and accomplishments of America's founding fathers. Walking the historic sites of Dover also allows you to pay them homage but also understand just what spirit of independence initiated the American Revolution.

Visit Dover, DE

Dover plays a rich, diverse role in the American Revolution and is, therefore, the ideal destination for anyone with an interest in early American history. While the Old State House serves as one of the country's most historic buildings in the hall, the Green is its gathering ground for the many historical events to take place there. All these give different insights regarding Delaware's contribution to the founding of America. In fact, a trip to Dover can be considered one of those journeys through history, to see for one's eyes the events that helped to shape a nation.

Conclusion

Each of the historical sites in Dover has stories of ordinary people who, driven by visions of freedom and equality, took extraordinary stands against oppression to shape a new nation. Visiting these sites of the Revolutionary War affords an opportunity to walk in their shoes and see the risks they took for future generations. These preserved spaces give us the reflection needed to connect very intimately with the principles—that is, liberty, justice, and resilience—that represent the very foundation of the United States. By learning how Dover was involved in the Revolution, we learn about history in a way much deeper than just knowing things. We connect with an enduring spirit that fought to establish a nation based upon independence and democracy.


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