Discover Delmarva: Historic Lewes
LEWES, DE- Historic Lewes brings the rich history of the first town in the first state. Director of Interpretation Ryan Schwartz met up with us to bring this history to life, “Using these wonderful historical assets that we have. And not just maintaining them but- making them accessible to people and showing people different facets of history that they can engage with. And not just coming in and looking at things necessarily behind glass. But- hands-on in a very tactile way.”
Walking on the campus, you’re transported back to the town’s founding. From historic homes, gathering places, and ships that shaped the town’s story. Schwartz highlighted their fleet of historic vessels, “This is our late 1700s naval cutter. This is a replica of the type of vessel that might have been attached to, say, the USS Constitution, that famous American warship from the War of 1812.” While the boats the settlers used hit the waters for special occasions, what we share with them can be found in a simple cup of coffee, according to Schwartz. “One of the centerpieces here on the historic ship carpenter campus is our coffee house. Coffee house was a meeting place, especially for business, back in the late 18th century and early 1800s.” Now the flavor profile? Yea that’s a bit different. Sugar was a luxury product, and often the chocolate drink they served had spices and even hints of peppers in it.
Don’t believe me? Schwartz invites everyone to come try it yourself. “You can come in here and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate, or as they would have called it back then, just chocolate. Or tea and coffee sources from some of the same places they would have been back in the colonial era.”
If that’s not your cup of tea.. The tavern is not just for show! They serve a variety of drinks and have become a town favorite! Much like the early settlers of the town, this continues the living history they bring to life. Just around the corner is their newest addition for this year. “This is the parlor of the Burden Ingram house, and it’s part of our newest immersive experience here on the campus.” The house has historically accurate pieces while highlighting the societal difference from classes and the prominence of slavery within the town and its role in shaping the town.
Historic Lewes also maintains the Ryves Holt House, A Light Saving Station, and the Cannon Ball house to continue preserving the town’s dynamic history.
Schwartz says that with so much to do along Delaware’s, this drives them to deliver their best. “So we really need to put our best foot forward. To show people that hey, we’re people that you want to come to. We are a contributor to this community.”
Historic Lewes has a jam-packed lineup of events over the coming months. Plus, the new opening of their maritime museum over the coming weeks. To learn more and to plan your visit, check out their website.
