Discover Greenwood: Railroad History, Farms, and Regional Products

Greenwood combines railroad history with farms, regional products, and peaceful ways to explore the area at your own pace. Those looking for a vacation rental or vacation home can therefore tailor their trip to different interests: historical development, farm culture, regional products, or a relaxed bike ride are among the themes that define Greenwood.

Greenwood’s History Along the Railroad

An important starting point for understanding the town is the year 1858. After the Delaware Railroad was completed through Northwest Fork Hundred, the railroad station and the town of Greenwood were established on land owned by Simeon Pennewell. The station helped Greenwood quickly become a market town and commercial center.

The 1868 Atlas of Delaware shows what the town looked like at the time: Greenwood is depicted around the railroad, with a station, a general store, a hotel, and residences located within a few blocks along the line. The historic economy also included orchards, row-crop farming, general and specialty retail, a blacksmith shop, a gristmill, a sawmill, and a cannery. In the 1910s, the Maryland, Delaware and Virginia short line ran from east to west through Greenwood. Those interested in local history will therefore find more than individual dates here; they will find a development closely connected with transportation, commerce, and agriculture.

Farms, Food, and Seasonal Discoveries

Greenwood’s agricultural side can be understood through several specific examples. Adams Home Farm has been continuously operated by the same family since 1862. The property includes 13 buildings and structures that contribute to its historical significance. Little Wagon Produce is a family business under Woodenhawk Farms, a grain-farming operation run by Dan and Becky Vanderwende. Little Wagon Produce has been in operation since 1989.

Vanderwende Farm Creamery is another regional attraction: it produces homemade ice cream in small batches, made fresh on the farm. Don’s Tree Farm grew from the 23 acres purchased in 2008 to 40 acres with more than 3,000 planted Christmas trees. The farm’s Christmas Shop offers wreaths, garlands, table decorations, grave decorations, and Christmas gifts. When planning your trip, you can therefore choose among historic agriculture, regional products, and a distinctly seasonal focus.

Orientation and Planning the Right Trip

For practical orientation, the Greenwood Public Library offers a 24-hour online catalog, media renewals, holds, and free research databases. The library is located less than one mile from U.S. Highway 13 and can be reached via Market Street, Delaware Route 16. It is just before the railroad tracks at the intersection of Mill Street and Market Street.

Those who want to explore Greenwood actively can cycle along quiet back roads. This offers a different perspective from exploring the station, farms, and historic buildings. Your specific choice should be based on your personal travel itinerary.

More Destinations for Planning Your Trip

If you would like to compare other places in addition to Greenwood, you can also view Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, Fenwick Island, Seaford, Long Neck, Dagsboro, Milford, and Dewey Beach. Greenwood offers a distinct focus: railroad and local history meet farms, homemade products, and quiet routes for a varied trip itinerary.

For the overarching travel overview: Sussex County.