Explore the First State: 5 Surprising Facts About Delaware
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When we think of Delaware, its status as the first state often comes to mind. However, there’s much more to this small but significant state. In this post, we’ll uncover the hidden corners of Delaware’s history, culture, and landscape to explore 5 surprising facts about the First State. Get ready to be inspired and learn to love Delaware even more as we delve into its unique stories and contributions.
Key Takeaways
Historical Significance: Delaware was the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution.
Unique Geography: It's the second smallest state but offers diverse landscapes from beaches to forests.
Pioneering Innovations: Delaware has a rich history of inventions and firsts in various industries.
Cultural Heritage: The state boasts a mix of colonial and modern cultural attractions.
Economic Impact: Known for its business-friendly laws, many major corporations are incorporated here.
Delaware: A Literary Giant's Playground
Tucked away in the middle of Delaware is the town of Felton and it has a literary claim to fame that will delight book lovers. It’s said to be the inspiration for “Pleasantville” the all-American small town that appears in the works of Philip Roth. Roth, one of the greatest American writers of the 20th century, used the town as the setting for some of his most famous books including “American Pastoral”.
Unpacking Literature’s Map
Walking around Felton it’s easy to see how this Delaware town could be the backdrop for Roth’s vivid descriptions and intricate stories. With its beauty and history Felton is a lot of the classic American that Roth wrote about. Whether you’re a Roth fan or just curious about the real places that inspired his fictional town a visit to Felton is a way to explore the intersection of literature, history and culture. The town’s literary connection adds another layer to Delaware’s already diverse cultural landscape and reminds us that even the smallest of places can have a big impact on the world of art and literature.
Delaware: A Key Stop on the Atlantic Flyway
Every year, Delaware transforms into a critical hub on the Atlantic Flyway, one of North America's major bird migration corridors. Thousands of avian travelers, from the Ruby-throated Hummingbird to the stately Bald Eagle, pass through the state's diverse habitats. These migrations underscore Delaware's crucial ecological role, with its wetlands, forests, and beaches serving as rest and refueling stations for birds journeying thousands of miles.
Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge: A Birders’ Heaven
Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is a birders’ and photographers’ dream. This place is chock full of birds and you’ll see shorebirds like the American Avocet, Black-necked Stilt and Lesser Yellowlegs.
Waterfowl flocks of Blue-winged Teal and Northern Pintail add to the mix. Each one is another piece of the puzzle of the birds that call Delaware home for a little while.
Rare Birds: A Bonus
Birding in Delaware is even more exciting with the rare visitors. The American Bittern, Black-headed Gull and Short-eared Owl hunting over fields in winter are among the unusual sightings.
The state’s shores are also home to Red Knots during their long migration. They feast on Horseshoe Crab eggs to fuel their journey. These are special moments that highlight the importance of Delaware conservation and global bird conservation.
The Mighty Blue Hen
Based on the stories of Delaware’s colorful past, the Blue Hen Chicken is the embodiment of the state’s grit and individuality, calling to those who want to dig up the First State’s history. The Blue Hen Chicken isn’t just a breed of chicken – it’s the official state bird of Delaware, but not for the reasons you might think.
The Blue Hen’s Valor: Revolutionary War Ties
The Blue Hen’s status goes back to the Revolutionary War, to a company of brave Delaware soldiers called the “Blue Hen’s Chickens.” These soldiers were known for their extraordinary bravery and never say die spirit, qualities they saw in their fighting birds, said to be descended from a blue hen.
A Delaware Icon
Choosing the Blue Hen Chicken as the state bird shows Delaware’s deep American roots. It’s Delaware’s uniqueness. It’s more than a bird; it’s a symbol of Delaware’s toughness, grit and fighting spirit.
If you want to get into the lesser known parts of U.S. history or delve into Delaware’s cultural fabric, the story of the Blue Hen Chicken is a good place to start.
Delaware’s Underwater Railroad
Delaware was a major stop on the Underground Railroad in the 19th century, thousands of enslaved people passed through here. What’s not as well known is that some of those escape routes went underwater, Harriet Tubman famously navigated the marshes by boat. This part of Delaware’s history shows the state’s role in the fight for human rights. It’s a testament to those who risked everything for freedom.
Delaware - First and Last State...
For many years Delaware was the only state in America without a National Park. Despite being the First State to join the Union, it wasn’t until 2013 that Delaware got one. With the creation of the First State National Monument, now known as the First State National Historical Park, Delaware is finally part of the club of states that preserve and honor their history in a national park. The park covers over 1,100 acres and had over 30,000 visitors in its first year, so Delaware is clearly a popular and historic destination.
Honoring Delaware's Rich History
The establishment of the First State National Historical Park not only filled a conspicuous gap in the country's network of national parks, but it also served as a long-overdue recognition of Delaware's instrumental role in American history.
The park, which includes key historical sites like the New Castle Court House and the Woodlawn property, provides a fascinating journey into the nation's past. It's a potent reminder of the rich tapestry of American history and culture within Delaware's borders, highlighting that small spaces can hold vast historical significance and cultural value. The park's annual visitor numbers have increased consistently since its inception, a testament to Delaware's enduring historical appeal and place in the nation's heart.
Final Thought
As we've journeyed through Delaware's lesser-known facts, we've discovered that this small state is bursting with surprises. Each of these fun facts tells a story about Delaware's distinct character and helps us appreciate its unique role in the tapestry of American history. So the next time you think of the First State, remember that Delaware offers much more than meets the eye—it's a state full of delightful surprises, inspiring heritage, and unmatched charm.
FAQ
Q: Why is Delaware called the First State? A: Delaware was the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution on December 7, 1787.
Q: What are some key attractions in Delaware? A: Key attractions include the Delaware beaches, Brandywine Valley, and historical sites like Old New Castle.
Q: How does Delaware's geography stand out? A: Despite being the second smallest state, Delaware offers diverse landscapes, including coastal areas, forests, and urban settings.
Q: What makes Delaware business-friendly? A: Delaware's business-friendly laws and favorable tax policies attract many major corporations to incorporate there.
Q: What historical innovations are associated with Delaware? A: Delaware has a history of pioneering innovations, including the invention of nylon by the DuPont Company.