(DOVER, Del. — March 19, 2021) — The Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs will be sponsoring seven special programs during the month of April 2021. Five of the programs will be streamed live on the internet with reservations required. A full schedule is included below. All programs are free and open to the public. Go to the following for additional information and reservation instructions: https://history.delaware.gov/2021/03/17/division-programs-april-2021.

Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs programs, April 2021

Thursday, April 1, 2021
“The Wreck of the DeBraak.” Virtual program from the Zwaanendael Museum explores the history of the British warship DeBraak which sank off the coast of Lewes in May of 1798 only to be recovered by treasure hunters nearly 200 years later. Program streamed live via Zoom. Registration required. 3:30 p.m. For additional information, call 302-645-1148 or mailto:zmuseum@delaware.gov.

Friday, April 2, 2021
Good Friday. All museums of the State of Delaware (the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State House and the Zwaanendael Museum) will be open for tours by reservation. 302-744-5054.

Friday–Saturday, April 2–11, 2021
Lewes Tulip Celebration. Series of activities at downtown Lewes locations including the Zwaanendael Museum, located at 102 Kings Highway, where tulip arrangements by the Sussex Gardeners will be displayed. In keeping with Gov. Carney’s COVID-19 guidance, the museum is open for 45-minute tours by advance reservations only on Wed., Thurs., Fri. and Sat. at 10 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 1:15 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Free admission. Call 302-645-1148 for reservations. Visit the Zwaanendael Museum’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Zwaanendael for tulip-related children’s craft activities.

Sunday, April 4, 2021
Easter Sunday. All museums of the State of Delaware (the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State House and the Zwaanendael Museum) will be closed. 302-744-5054.

Tuesday, April 6, 2021
“Trivia Nights.” Virtual program hosted by the John Dickinson Plantation and the Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve featuring science, history, art and more. Interactive program hosted live on Webex. Registration required by March 30, 2021. 6 p.m. For additional information, call 302-739-3277 or mailto:JDPmuseum@delaware.gov.

Saturday, April 10, 2021
“Samuel Francis du Pont and the Civil War Navy.” Virtual program from the Zwaanendael Museum featuring Lucas Clawson, historian at Hagley Museum. Program streamed live via Zoom. Registration required. 3:30 p.m. For additional information, call 302-645-1148 or mailto:zmuseum@delaware.gov.

Saturday, April 17, 2021
Dutch-American Friendship Day. Virtual program from the Zwaanendael Museum featuring historic-site interpreter Tom Pulmano exploring Delaware’s Dutch roots and how that connection is alive today. Program streamed live via Zoom. Registration required. 3:30 p.m. For additional information, call 302-645-1148 or mailto:zmuseum@delaware.gov.

Tuesday, April 27, 2021
King’s Day. Visit the Zwaanendael Museum’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Zwaanendael for activities and information in celebration of the birthday of King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands and to learn about Delaware’s Dutch connection. For additional information, call 302-645-1148 or mailto:zmuseum@delaware.gov.

Saturday, April 30, 2021
“Across the Atlantic to Appalachia.” Virtual program from the Johnson Victrola Museum in which historic-site interpreter Tyler Hutchison explores how country music, which is often heavily attributed to the United States, can trace its roots to many different countries. Accompanied by 78-rpm recordings played on authentic Victor Talking Machines, the program will cover how all of these different stories and musical styles converged into one place to become the country music that we know today, and examines the role that the Victor Talking Machine Company played in the process. Program streamed live via Zoom. Registration required. 6 p.m. For additional information, call 302-739-3262 or mailto:jvmuseum@Delaware.gov.

Administered by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the five museums of the State of Delaware—the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State House and the Zwaanendael Museum—tell the story of the First State’s contributions to the history and culture of the United States. Through tours, exhibits, and special programs, the museums shine a spotlight on Delaware’s unique history and the diverse people who came to live there. The museums are accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. The New Castle Court House Museum and the John Dickinson Plantation are partner sites of the First State National Historical Park. The Old State House is located on the Dover Green, another partner site of the park. Go to the following for a long-term calendar of division-sponsored events.

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 general 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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Contact:
Jim Yurasek
Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs
Phone: 302-608-5326
E-mail: Jim.Yurasek@delaware.gov
Web: http://history.delaware.gov

(DOVER, Del. — Feb. 16, 2021) — During the month of March 2021, the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs will be offering three virtual programs streamed live on the Web. Two of these programs will be presented in commemoration of National Women’s History Month, an opportunity to honor and celebrate women’s lives and historic achievements. All programs are free and open to the public. Go to the following for additional information and registration instructions: https://history.delaware.gov/2021/02/15/hca-womens-history-month-2021.

Live virtual programs in March 2021

Tuesday, March 2, 2021
“Trivia Nights.” Virtual program hosted by the John Dickinson Plantation and the Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve featuring science, history, art and more. Interactive program hosted live on Webex. Registration required by Feb. 23, 2021. 6 p.m. 302-739-3277 or mailto:JDPmuseum@delaware.gov.

Saturday, March 20, 2021
“The First Women of the First State.” Virtual program from The Old State House in which Theo Braunskill, Elders Council member of the Lenapé Indian Tribe of Delaware, museum Site Manager Nena Todd and division Curator of Education Vertie Lee discuss the role of women past and present in Lenapé culture. The conversation will also include a look at contemporary life in Delaware’s two state-recognized tribes — the Lenapé and the Nanticoke. Presented in celebration of Women’s History Month. Program streamed live via Zoom. 2 p.m. 302-744-5054 or mailto:OSHmuseum@delaware.gov.

Thursday, March 25, 2021
“Lasting Legacy Honoring the Nanticoke Indian Tribe.” Virtual program from the Zwaanendael Museum featuring Bonnie Hall, a member of the Nanticoke Indian Association, discussing the efforts that she led in placing a historical marker in Cupola Park in Millsboro, Del. honoring the contributions, history and culture of the Nanticoke. Presented in celebration of National Women’s History Month. Program streamed live via Zoom. 3:30 p.m. 302-645-1148 or mailto:zmuseum@delaware.gov.

Administered by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the five museums of the State of Delaware—the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State House and the Zwaanendael Museum—tell the story of the First State’s contributions to the history and culture of the United States. Through tours, exhibits, and special programs, the museums shine a spotlight on Delaware’s unique history and the diverse people who came to live there. The museums are accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. The New Castle Court House Museum and the John Dickinson Plantation are partner sites of the First State National Historical Park. The Old State House is located on the Dover Green, another partner site of the park. Go to the following for a long-term calendar of division-sponsored events.

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 general 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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Contact:
Jim Yurasek
Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs
Phone: 302-608-5326
E-mail: Jim.Yurasek@delaware.gov
Web: http://history.delaware.gov

Live virtual programs in February 2021

Thursday, Feb. 4, 2021
“The Wreck of the DeBraak.” Virtual program from the Zwaanendael Museum explores the history of the British warship DeBraak which sank off the coast of Lewes in May of 1798 only to be recovered by treasure hunters nearly 200 years later. 3:30 p.m. 302-645-1148 or mailto:zmuseum@delaware.gov.

Saturday, Feb. 6, 2021
“Mary Ann Shadd Cary: Delaware’s Forgotten Daughter.” Virtual presentation from the New Castle Court House Museum featuring Lora Englehart of Delaware Humanities discussing the life of Wilmington native Mary Ann Shadd Cary (1823-1893), a teacher, journalist, editor, feminist, lawyer, wife and mother who lived a life committed to racial and gender equality. Presented in celebration of African American History Month. 1 p.m. 302-323-4453 or mailto:NCCHmuseum@delaware.gov.

Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021
“A Student’s Quest for Racial Reckoning in Delaware.” Virtual program from the Zwaanendael Museum in which Savannah Shepherd discusses the journey that led her to collaborate with the Equal Justice Initiative’s Community Remembrance Project that installed a marker in memoriam of the lynching of George White. Presented in celebration of African American History Month. 3:30 p.m. 302-645-1148 or mailto:zmuseum@delaware.gov.

Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2021
Delaware State Review Board for Historic Preservation meeting. Virtual meeting to include review of the African Union Church of Iron Hill’s nomination to the National Register of Historic Places: 10 a.m. 302-736-7417.

Saturday, Feb. 27, 2021
“Remembering Washington.” Virtual living-history program from The Old State House in which historical interpreter Tom Welch portrays Col. Allen McLane, the Revolutionary War hero from Duck Creek (Smyrna, Del.). As part of the program, McLane will discuss his decades-long relationship with George Washington. Co-sponsored by the Friends of Old Dover. Program streamed live via Zoom or on the museum’s Facebook page. 10 a.m. 302-744-5054 or mailto:OSHmuseum@delaware.gov.

Administered by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the five museums of the State of Delaware—the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State House and the Zwaanendael Museum—tell the story of the First State’s contributions to the history and culture of the United States. Through tours, exhibits, and special programs, the museums shine a spotlight on Delaware’s unique history and the diverse people who came to live there. The museums are accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. The New Castle Court House Museum and the John Dickinson Plantation are partner sites of the First State National Historical Park. The Old State House is located on the Dover Green, another partner site of the park. Go to the following for a long-term calendar of division-sponsored events.

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 general 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.

(DOVER, Del. — Dec. 21, 2020) — Cross-stitching, the wreck of the DeBraak, artist Francis Barraud and forgotten presidents will be explored in virtual programs streamed live on the Web by Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs museums during the month of January 2020. All programs are free and open to the public. Go to the following for additional information and reservation instructions: https://history.delaware.gov/2020/12/21/hca-programs-jan-2021.

Live virtual-programs in January 2021

Saturday, Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30, 2021
“Stitching on the Light: A Virtual Stitch Along.” Online program developed by Madeline Golden, former Zwaanendael Museum historical interpreter, in which participants create a cross-stitch embroidery featuring Lewes-area lighthouses. On Jan. 2, 9, 23 and 30, portions of the cross-stitch pattern and instructions will be posted on the museum’s Facebook and Instagram accounts. On Jan. 16 at 3:30 p.m., Golden will conduct a cross-stitch workshop streamed live via Zoom and on the museum’s Facebook page. 302-645-1148 or mailto:zmuseum@delaware.gov.

Thursday, Jan. 7, 2021
“The Wreck of the DeBraak.” Virtual program explores the history of the British warship DeBraak which sank off the coast of Lewes in May of 1798 only to be recovered by treasure hunters nearly 200 years later. 3:30 p.m. 302-645-1148 or mailto:zmuseum@delaware.gov.

Friday, Jan. 22, 2021
“Francis Barraud: His Master’s Voice.” Virtual living-history performance from Dover’s Johnson Victrola Museum in which historic-site interpreter Steven Mumford portrays artist Francis Barraud whose painting of a dog staring into a talking machine became the trademark of the Victor Talking Machine Company. 6 p.m. 302-739-3262 or mailto:JVmuseum@delaware.gov.

Saturday, Jan. 23, 2021
“Forgettable/Forgotten Presidents and How the Presidency Has Evolved.” Virtual presentation from the New Castle Court House Museum in which historic-site interpreter Bob Vander Decker explores the presidents of the Continental Congress through the ratification of the Articles of Confederation and U.S. Constitution. The program will explain why there have been 62 men elected to the office of president but Joe Biden is only listed as number 46. 1 p.m. 302-323-4453 or mailto:NCCHmuseum@delaware.gov.

Administered by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the five museums of the State of Delaware—the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State House and the Zwaanendael Museum—tell the story of the First State’s contributions to the history and culture of the United States. Through tours, exhibits, and special programs, the museums shine a spotlight on Delaware’s unique history and the diverse people who came to live there. The museums are accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. The New Castle Court House Museum and the John Dickinson Plantation are partner sites of the First State National Historical Park. The Old State House is located on the Dover Green, another partner site of the park. Go to the following for a long-term calendar of division-sponsored events.

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 general 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.

-Online program from the Zwaanendael Museum during January 2021-