Delaware, located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, is a small but historically significant state known for its contributions to American governance, beautiful coastal areas, and business-friendly environment. Delaware holds a unique place in American history. It was the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution on December 7, 1787, earning it the nickname “The First State.” Its role in the early days of the nation is celebrated, and Delaware’s state capital, Dover, is home to a preserved statehouse dating back to the 18th century. Visitors can explore this rich history at museums and historical sites throughout the state.
Delaware boasts a picturesque coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, known for its sandy beaches and charming seaside towns. Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, and Dewey Beach are popular destinations for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Cape Henlopen State Park offers natural beauty, hiking trails, and a historic WWII observation tower with panoramic views of the coast.
Delaware’s business-friendly policies make it a corporate hub. Many major corporations, including Fortune 500 companies, choose to incorporate in Delaware due to its advantageous tax laws and well-established legal framework. Wilmington, the state’s largest city, is home to numerous financial institutions and businesses.
Delaware is home to the University of Delaware, a prestigious research institution, and Delaware State University, a historically black university. Wilmington features cultural attractions like the Delaware Art Museum and the Grand Opera House, offering a range of artistic experiences for residents and visitors.
Delaware State Capitol in Dover
Let’s take a look at these 55 interesting facts about Delaware to know more about this “First State”.
- First State: Delaware is often referred to as “The First State” because it was the first of the original 13 colonies to ratify the U.S. Constitution on December 7, 1787.
- Small Size: Delaware is the second smallest state in the U.S., covering an area of only 1,949 square miles.
- Capital City: Dover is the capital of Delaware.
- Wilmington: Wilmington is the largest city in Delaware and the state’s economic hub.
- Delaware River: The state is named after the Delaware River, which forms its eastern border.
- Beaches: Delaware has several popular beach towns, including Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, and Dewey Beach.
- Tax-Free Shopping: Delaware is known for its lack of sales tax, making it a popular shopping destination.
- DuPont: The chemical company DuPont was founded in Delaware in 1802 and has played a significant role in the state’s economy.
- Corporate Capital: Delaware is known for its business-friendly laws, making it the legal home to many corporations.
- Mason-Dixon Line: The southern border of Delaware is part of the Mason-Dixon Line, historically significant as a boundary between free and slave states.
- Horseshoe Crab Sanctuary: Delaware Bay is a crucial breeding ground for horseshoe crabs, which play a vital role in medical research.
- Delaware Memorial Bridge: This iconic twin-span suspension bridge connects Delaware to New Jersey.
- Delaware State University: DSU, located in Dover, is one of the historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the U.S.
- Winterthur Museum: Winterthur is a renowned museum and garden featuring American decorative arts.
- Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge is a major stopover point for migratory birds on the Atlantic Flyway.
- Nemours Mansion and Gardens: Located in Wilmington, this estate features a stunning mansion and beautiful gardens.
- University of Delaware: UD is a prominent research university known for its strong programs in engineering and business.
- White Clay Creek State Park: This park offers hiking, biking, and equestrian trails in a scenic natural setting.
- Delaware Water Gap: Part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is in Delaware, offering outdoor activities.
- Delaware History Museum: Located in Wilmington, this museum showcases the state’s history and heritage.
- Peaches: Delaware is known for its peaches, and the peach blossom is the state flower.
- Blackbird State Forest: This forest offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and birdwatching.
- Zwaanendael Museum: This museum in Lewes commemorates Delaware’s first European settlement by the Dutch in 1631.
- Delaware’s State Fish: The weakfish (Cynoscion regalis) is the official state fish.
- Delaware’s State Bird: The Delaware state bird is the Delaware blue hen (Gallus gallus).
- Delaware’s State Tree: The Delaware state tree is the American holly (Ilex opaca).
- Delaware’s State Flower: The Delaware state flower is the peach blossom (Prunus persica).
- Delaware’s State Marine Animal: The horseshoe crab (Limulus polyphemus) is the official state marine animal.
- Delaware’s State Soil: Greenwich loam is the official state soil of Delaware.
- Delaware’s State Beverage: Milk is the official state beverage.
- Delaware’s State Macroinvertebrate: The stonefly (order Plecoptera) is the official state macroinvertebrate.
- Delaware’s State Shell: The channeled whelk (Busycotypus canaliculatus) is the official state shell.
- Delaware’s State Herb: Sweet goldenrod (Solidago odora) is the official state herb.
- Delaware’s State Insect: The ladybug (Coccinella spp.) is the official state insect.
- Delaware’s State Butterfly: The eastern tiger swallowtail (Papilio glaucus) is the official state butterfly.
- Delaware’s State Wildlife Animal: The Delaware state wildlife animal is the grey fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus).
- Delaware’s State Soil Conservation: The Kent County Conservation District is the official state soil conservation district.
- Delaware’s State Tall Ship: The Kalmar Nyckel is the official state tall ship.
- Delaware’s State Fossil: The belemnite is the official state fossil.
- Delaware’s State Plutonic Rock: The granite is the official state plutonic rock.
- Delaware’s State Limestone: The Delaware state limestone is the official state limestone.
- Delaware’s State Natural Areas: The Delaware state natural areas are the official state natural areas.
- Delaware’s State Street Rod: The 1932 Ford is the official state street rod.
- Delaware’s State Quarter: The Delaware state quarter features a depiction of Caesar Rodney’s historic ride.
- Delaware’s State Waterfowl: The Delaware state waterfowl is the Delaware Bay retriever.
- Delaware’s State Folk Dance: The Delaware state folk dance is the square dance.
- Delaware’s State Folk Game: The Delaware state folk game is horseshoe pitching.
- Delaware’s State Anthem: The Delaware state anthem is “Our Delaware” by George B. Hynson.
- Delaware’s State Descriptive Color: Colonial blue and buff are the official state descriptive colors.
- Delaware’s State Historical Society: The Delaware Historical Society, founded in 1864, is one of the oldest state historical societies in the United States.
- Dover International Speedway: Dover is home to “The Monster Mile,” one of the most challenging NASCAR tracks.
- Delaware River and Bay Authority: This bi-state agency operates the Delaware Memorial Bridge and Cape May-Lewes Ferry.
- Chateau Country: Northern Delaware is known as “Chateau Country” due to its grand estates and mansions.
- Delaware’s Swedish Heritage: Delaware has a significant Swedish heritage, dating back to its early colonial history.
- Delaware Blue Coats: The Delaware Blue Coats are an NBA G League team affiliated with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Delaware may be small in size, but it carries a rich and diverse legacy. As “The First State,” its historical significance in shaping the nation cannot be overstated, and this history is well-preserved in its colonial towns, museums, and landmarks. The state’s scenic coastline, charming beach towns, and vibrant cultural scene offer an array of experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Delaware’s unique blend of history, natural beauty, and business-friendly environment make it a state of enduring appeal. Whether you’re exploring its historic districts, relaxing on its sandy shores, or engaging in commerce within its corporate-friendly landscape, Delaware invites you to discover its distinctive character and contributions to the American story.
