ST. JONES NECK – The celebration of the life and works of Delaware statesman and “Penman of the Revolution” John Dickinson continues into the New Year with programs slated to explore his legacy and honor his contributions to the history of the state and the nation.
The offerings will close out a season of programming to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the publication of Dickinson’s “Letters from a Farmer in Pennsylvania to the Inhabitants of the British Colonies,” the first widely-read treatise laying out the American cause for unity in resistance to British colonial oppression. More information about Dickinson’s “Letters,” his life and times, and scheduled programs can be found at de.gov/johndickinson, presented by the Delaware Department of State.
Upcoming programs include a presentation on African-American history at the John Dickinson Plantation, a panel discussion with Gov. John Carney, and a wreath-laying at Dickinson’s final resting place in Wilmington.
WHAT: Stories of African-American History From St. Jones Neck
Learn about the history of the African American inhabitants of the John Dickinson Plantation in Kent County and Dickinson’s complicated relationship with the institution of slavery. Participants will read copies of 18th century documents to investigate the lives of the free and enslaved people who lived on the Plantation.
WHEN: 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, January 13
WHERE: John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover
WHAT: Panel Discussion Featuring Gov. John Carney
Gov. Carney will participate in a panel discussion with two eminent Delaware historians: retired state Supreme Court Justice Randy Holland and former News Journal editorial page editor John Sweeney, author of a forthcoming book on Dickinson’s “Letters.” The discussion and audience Q&A will focus on Dickinson’s legacy and how it relates to Delaware politics and government today.
WHEN: 11 a.m.-noon Saturday, February 10
WHERE: Delaware Public Archives, 121 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Dover
WHAT: John Dickinson Wreath Laying Ceremony
A reading of a eulogy and a wreath laying ceremony on the grave of John Dickinson. Refreshments available following the ceremony. The event is sponsored by the Quaker Hill Historic Preservation Foundation and the Friends of the John Dickinson Mansion.
WHEN: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, February 17
WHERE: Wilmington Friends Meeting House, 401 N West St., Wilmington