The Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs (HCA) announces a full range of experiences for the history buff in all of us.  From traditional lectures and costumed interpreters to interactive tours and dance classes, visitors to HCA sites can fully immerse themselves in history all month long. All programs are free to the public; however, some have age restrictions and recommended preregistration.

The Zwaanendael Museum,102 Kings Hwy, Lewes, DE. Phone: 302-645-1148

Walk to DeBraak at Cape Henlopen State Park. 15099 Cape Henlopen Drive, Lewes, DE 19958, Thurs., September 3, 10-11 a.m., Sat., September 12, 2-3 pm & Thurs., September 17, 10-11 a.m.

Explore the history, artifacts, and surviving hull section of the 18th century shipwreck, HMS DeBraak. Visitors can view the ship’s hull and learn about its origin, crew, and sinking through a guided presentation and display of historic relics.

This free public program starts at Cape Henlopen State Park (CHSP). Participants meet Zwaanendael Museum staff outside the CHSP Park Office and take a short walk (0.3 miles) to the DeBraak facility. Each tour lasts approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Individuals aged 10 and up are welcome. Space is limited to 18 participants. Comfortable footwear is required. Prior registration is strongly encouraged to ensure a spot. Walk-ins are welcome, space permitting.

To register, email zmuseum@delaware.gov or call (302) 645-1148. (Programs for groups of more than 10 people may be arranged in advance by contacting the museum.)

Loyalist on the Lawn series, Saturdays, September 5 & 19, 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Costumed historian Mark Wilson portrays an officer of the Loyal American Regiment during the War of Independence. He demonstrates how Delaware Loyalists made their own armaments and supplies to support the British Crown.

The New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St, New Castle, DE Phone: 302-323-4453

History Revival: To Give My Voice in the Matter of Independence, Thurs., September 3, 7-8 pm

The revolutionary ideas in the Declaration of Independence suggested momentous change and uncertainty for the colonists. Many embraced the cause of independence, while others remained loyal to the English King. The New Castle Court House Museum revisits its popular series when Historian Chuck Fithian, former HCA Curator of Archaeology, reflects on Delaware’s colonial past and complex Revolutionary War history.

Creating a New State, Saturday, September 26, Noon-1 p.m.

The Delaware Constitution that was approved on September 20, 1776, established the Delaware State and acted as the base for future Delaware constitutions. To commemorate the 250th anniversary of its approval, one of the New Castle Court House Museum interpreters will share a presentation to explore this first constitution and its impact on the structure of Delaware government.

The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover, DE.  Phone: (302) 744-5054

Tales of Revolutionary Delaware, Saturday, September 5, 1:30-3 p.m.

In observance of the nation’s 250th anniversary, the Old State House presents a kaleidoscope of stories which reveal real life during the American Revolution.

John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover, DE.  Phone: (302) 739-3277

Dancing at Dickinson, Wednesday, September 16 & 30, 7-9 p.m.

Visitors will enjoy a special evening of fun, movement, and manners as the venue presents English country dance lessons. A staple of Regency-era British life rooted in etiquette and social connection, the English country dance is the stuff of Jane Austen novels.

In addition to addressing the historical significance of this popular art form, DC-based Founder and school Director, Michelle Sebastian Aldrich, will offer demonstrations and easy-to-follow instruction on dance formations. It is not necessary to come with a partner, as everyone dances with one another in this fun, lively, instructor-guided class.

The events are free to the public. Participants must be 18 or older, or 13 and up if accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program. Participants are encouraged to wear loose, comfortable clothes and flat shoes that prevent skidding on wood or cork floors. Pre-register by calling 302-739-3277.

Legacy and Landscape: Henry & Catherine’s Journey. Sat., September 19, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Using probate records and other archival documents to piece together their journey, the program explores how Henry and Catherine Campbell navigated a society that was committed to restricting the rights and opportunities of African Americans. From enslavement to land ownership, the Campbells’ story is one of brave self-determination, Black autonomy and lasting legacy.

Cooch’s Bridge Historic Site, 961 Old Baltimore Pike, Newark, DE. Phone: 302-731-5780

Pencader Heritage Museum’s Battle of Cooch’s Bridge Memorial Service at Pencader Heritage Museum, 2029 Sunset Lake Rd, Newark, DE, Saturday, September 5, 11 a.m. – Noon

Friends of Cooch’s Bridge Historic Site Open House, parking at the Pencader Heritage Museum with free shuttle, Noon – 3 p.m.

Join the Pencader Heritage Museum and the Friends of Cooch’s Bridge Historic Site for two events commemorating and sharing the history of Cooch’s Bridge. Attend either event, or both. Parking for both events is at the Pencader Heritage Museum, with a free shuttle available to take participants to the Open House at the Cooch Homestead property. Both events are free, but registration is requested for the Open House. Please visit friendsofcoochsbridge.org/open-house-2026/ for more information and to register.

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The Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is an agency of the State of Delaware. The division enhances Delaware’s quality of life by preserving the state’s unique historical heritage, fostering community stability and economic vitality, and providing educational programs and assistance to the public on Delaware history. The division’s diverse array of services includes operation of five museums, administration of the State Historic Preservation Office, conservation of the State’s archaeological and historic-objects collections, operation of a conference center and management of historic properties across the state. Primary funding for division programs and services is provided by annual appropriations from the Delaware General Assembly and grants from the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, a federal agency. However, the contents and opinions expressed in the division’s programs and services do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Department of the Interior.

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