(DOVER, Del.—Oct. 18, 2016)—Visitors of all ages are invited to celebrate Halloween early by attending the fictionalized historical-play “Who Done It: A Historic Murder Mystery” that will be presented at 2 and 8 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016 at The Old State House, located at 25 The Green in Dover, Del. Admission is free and open to the public, but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-744-5054.
Created by historic-site interpreters at The Old State House, “Who Done It: A Historic Murder Mystery” will transport attendees back to the 18th century to help Delaware physician James Sykes solve the mysterious case of Samuel Bedford III’s murder. Armed only with a checklist and some helpful hints from Dr. Sykes himself, visitors will have a chance to tour one of the oldest capitol buildings in the United States as they question those closest to Mr. Bedford, and draw their own conclusions as to “who done it.” Attendees will also learn the true medical mystery that inspired this program.
Visitors to the 2 p.m. performance are encouraged to bring children under age 18 for room-to-room trick-or-treating at stops within the building. Costumes are welcome for all who attend.
Completed in 1791, The Old State House served as the home of Delaware’s legislature until 1933 when the General Assembly moved to larger quarters in Legislative Hall. The Old State House features an 18th-century-style courtroom, governor’s and county offices and chambers for the state’s Senate and House of Representatives. The building is situated on Dover’s historic Green, a public area designated by William Penn in 1683.
Following is a schedule of museum-sponsored events through December 2016. All programs take place at The Old State House, located at 25 The Green in Dover, Del. Museum hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. All programs listed are free and open to the public. For additional information, call 302-744-5054.
Old State House events through December 2016
Thru mid-April, 2017
“The Old State House: A True Restoration 1976-2016.” Display explores preservation work that has been conducted since Delaware’s first state capitol building was restored to its original appearance in 1976. From the collections of the State of Delaware.
Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016
“Who Done It: A Historic Murder Mystery.” Fictionalized historical play in which museum guests assist Delaware’s Dr. James Sykes in questioning suspects in the death of Samuel Bedford, III. Based on a real 18th-century medical mystery solved by Dr. Sykes. Performances at 2 and 8 p.m. Visitors to the 2 p.m. performance are encouraged to bring children for indoor trick-or-treating at stops within the building. Costumes are welcomed for all who attend. Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-744-5054.
Saturday, Nov. 5, 2016
“18th Century Market Fair.” Programs explore an era when The Green served as the focal point of life in Dover as historical interpreters explore the goods, wares and political attitudes of the 1700s. The Old State House will celebrate the fair with special tours and 18th-century-style demonstrations. Sponsored by the First State Heritage Park. The Green, Dover. 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016
“The People’s House.” In honor of Election Day, guided tours will explore the significance of The Old State House and the many state and county governmental functions that were conducted there between 1791 and 1933. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 11, 2016
“Delaware Band of Brothers: A Veterans Day Presentation.” Program examines the interconnected lives, dedication and friendship of four Union officers who served together for four years in the Delaware volunteers during the American Civil War. 1 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 24, 2016
Thanksgiving Day. The Old State House closed.
Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016
“Historic Holiday Traditions.” Lecture by historic-site interpreter Latecia Prophet examines holiday traditions of the 18th century. First Saturday in the First State program. 1 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 25, 2016
Christmas Day. The Old State House closed.
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Contact:
Jim Yurasek
Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs
Phone: 302-736-7413
E-mail: Jim.Yurasek@delaware.gov
Web: http://history.delaware.gov