Discover Delmarva: Historic Lewes
LEWES, De- This week, we’re taking a trip back in time to the oldest town in Delaware. Historic Lewes offers a glimpse into the early life people experienced within this now bustling community we see today. Of course, we had to begin our journey at the coffee house where Director of Education Marcos Salaverria was testing out his barista skills. “We have featured our recreated Lewes Town Coffee House, where you can get a true taste of the past. Come sip a historic chocolate coffee or tea.” This coffee isn’t the typical cup of joe you or I would grab today. It was made with what the earliest settlers had access to, like red peppers, nutmeg, and even cinnamon! The reason for these unusual ingredients? The cost of sugar was expensive to import!
Moving through the campus, we approached our next stop, where the “spirits” are always high, according to Salaverria. “Our Sussex Tavern, which is modeled after The Mariners Tavern, was a true tavern that once stood on Market Street here in Lewes.” The tavern was often the town’s gathering spot where you would get news, a meal, and even some songs of the sea! They even serve 5 historic cocktails to give you that immersive experience of an early night out in Lewes. The majority of the buildings on the historic campus were moved here from other locations throughout Sussex County. Salaverria says the style of the houses was consistent throughout Sussex County. “Most of the buildings that are preserved that we keep. They are known as Sussex County Scooters. Made from Cedar Shaped Shingles. And try that 3 times fast while selling seashells down by the seashore, Sally, and there you go.”
Now, Historic Lewes does have sites that have been standing in those same spots for hundreds of years. Salaverrua showed us just down the street from the campus, “One of our oldest buildings and one of the oldest actually in the country is the Ryves Holt House. Which stands on its original foundation since 1686 and features the life story of a naval war hero, a local of this town. They have a display of Jacob Jones, who resided in this very house during his youth. He went on to become a war hero for his efforts during the War of 1812, where he held a British ship captive for a few hours.
The War of 1812 had a lasting impact across Lewes, where history has literally- stood the test of time at the famed Cannon Ball House. Salaverria says the history these places bring is more than just dates in a textbook or the feelings for the people of the town. “What it was is we dared stand up, and it’s the legend that grows out of it. “Brave Little Lewes” comes out of this two-day bombardment.” The Cannon Ball House has the actual cannonball that hit this house on display, and just holding this, I can’t imagine the fear of this being fired at me. They have numerous exhibits within the house showcasing what life was once like here in Lewes
Salaverria says Historic Lewes is thrilled to host their newest event starting May 17th, Shanty Fest! This will happen the third Friday of every month through November. The best part? This is a free event! For more information on tours, Shanty Fest, and other special events. You can check out their website.
