Discover Delaware City: History on the Delaware River

Delaware City combines urban history, waterscapes and impressive reminders of the American Civil War era. Those planning a trip that brings together culture, nature and maritime experiences will find a variety of points of interest here: historic streets, the Delaware River, canals, hiking and cycling trails, as well as destinations on Pea Patch Island.

Historic Town Center with a Distinctive Character

Delaware City's Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983 and includes more than 250 buildings of historical significance. On a walking tour, you will encounter Federal-style buildings from the 1820s as well as Italianate “Peach House” buildings from the 1850s. Delaware City Public School is also part of the town's history: it was built at this location in 1883 and designed in the Italianate style that was popular at the time.

Another notable historic feature is the preserved eastern lock gate of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, which is 22 feet wide. It dates from the expansion of the locks in 1854. The original canal was later converted into a branch canal that remains open to recreational and sport boats. Battery Park also displays a diving bell, a reminder that such equipment was used to remove sediment from the canal's lock grooves.

River, Forts and Maritime Experiences

Battery Park offers views across the Delaware River to Pea Patch Island and the New Jersey coast. From Delaware City, Fort Delaware can be reached via an approximately half-mile ferry ride to Pea Patch Island; a jitney runs from the island's landing to the fort. Fort Delaware is a pentagonal fort that served as a prisoner-of-war camp for captured Confederate soldiers during the Civil War. Thus, a view of the river also provides access to an important historic site.

Fort DuPont is also part of the history of river defense. The facility was established during the Civil War and founded in 1863 as the Ten Gun Battery opposite Fort Delaware. Beginning in 1897, concrete batteries for long-range rifles, rapid-fire guns and mortars were constructed there. Together with Fort Delaware and Fort Mott in New Jersey, Fort DuPont successfully defended the strategic point on the Delaware River against attacks from the sea until 1921. For boating days, Delaware City Marina offers berths, dry storage, fuel, a ship's store and maritime services.

Trails, Wetlands and Wildlife Observation

For active days, Dragon Run Park offers trails for hiking and cycling. Birdwatching and wildlife observation are possible there; the Nature Center complements these experiences with educational programs and exhibits. The Branch Canal Trail follows a former C&D Canal towpath from the 1920s along the open waters of the Branch Canal. Next to the trail is a 9.6-acre tidal wetland.

The 0.4-mile Branch Canal Trail connects the Castle Trail with local businesses as well as historic and natural attractions in and around Delaware City. It also provides access to the African Union Church Cemetery, the burial place of five members of the U.S. Colored Troops who served the Union during the Civil War. The Castle and Cardin Trails run along the north bank of the C&D Canal and meet at the state line; the Branch Canal Trail connects the Castle Trail with Delaware City's Canalfront Promenade. A DNREC boat ramp is located in the Branch Canal, which borders Delaware City.

Which Accommodation Fits Your Travel Plans?

When searching for a vacation rental or holiday home, you can first determine your preferred focus. For historic discoveries, the Historic District, the old lock facilities and the forts take center stage. Those who prefer exercise and nature can include the trails, tidal wetland and Nature Center in their daily plans. Water, boats and river views represent another distinct travel focus. This makes it possible to choose accommodation based on the experiences you would most like to enjoy during your stay.

The annual Canal Fest in September combines blues music, art in the park and various well-known craftspeople. It complements Delaware City's historic and nature-oriented attractions with a cultural event. You can access other destinations on the same travel portal through this selection: Christiana, Claymont, Wilmington, Brandywine, Hockessin, Bear, Newark, Brookside.

For the broader travel overview: New Castle County.