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New Castle Court House Museum: A Landmark of Liberty and Law

Explore Delaware's pivotal role in American history at the New Castle Court House Museum, where independence was declared and justice was served.

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Step back in time at the New Castle Court House Museum, Delaware's first court and state capitol. Built in 1732, this National Historic Landmark witnessed pivotal moments in American history, including Delaware's declaration of independence from Pennsylvania and England in 1776. Explore exhibits on colonial government, law, and the Underground Railroad in this beautifully preserved building.

A brief summary to New Castle Court House Museum

  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 1:30 pm-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website or call ahead for tour schedules and special events, as hours may vary.
  • Allow at least one to two hours to fully explore the museum and its exhibits.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming historic district of New Castle.
  • Consider visiting nearby attractions such as the Read House & Gardens or the Dutch House Museum.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The New Castle Court House Museum is located in the heart of historic New Castle, easily accessible on foot from most points within the historic district. From the New Castle Historical Society, walk south on Delaware Street for approximately 2 blocks. The museum will be on your left. Enjoy the scenic stroll through this charming colonial town.

  • Public Transport

    DART Route Number 15 stops at Sixth and Delaware Streets, a short walk from the museum. From the bus stop, walk north on Delaware Street for two blocks. The New Castle Court House Museum will be on your right. A single fare on DART is $2.00.

  • Driving

    From I-95 South, take Exit 5A and follow SR-141 East to SR-273. Turn left onto SR-273, then make a slight right onto Delaware Street. The museum will be on your left. Free street parking is available throughout New Castle, but spaces near the Court House Museum tend to fill up by 11:00 AM. Public parking lots are available on Second and Chestnut Streets, on West Third Street, the corner of West Third and South Streets, and at West Third & Battery Park.

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Discover more about New Castle Court House Museum

The New Castle Court House Museum, a National Historic Landmark, stands as a testament to Delaware's rich history and its pivotal role in the birth of the United States. Constructed in 1732, the courthouse served as Delaware's first court and state capitol. It was within these walls that representatives from New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties made the momentous decision to declare independence from both Pennsylvania and England in 1776, thus creating the Delaware State. The original 1732 structure was built upon the foundation of a 1680s courthouse, with additions and modifications made throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. The cupola of the Court House was designated in 1732 as the center of the 12-mile circular boundary, which created Delaware's unique curved northern border. All jurisdictions of Delaware's courts, including the federal courts, met in this building until 1881 when the courts were moved to Wilmington. However, occasional court sessions and proceedings are still held here. Today, the New Castle Court House Museum offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Delaware's colonial past. Exhibits and displays explore various aspects of the state's history, including its colonial court and assembly, the Underground Railroad, and the stories of abolitionists like Thomas Garrett and John Hunn. One exhibit tells the harrowing story of one family's escape to freedom on the Underground Railroad. Another highlights the cultural and social impacts the Swedish, Dutch, and English settlements had on the present-day town of New Castle. A visit to the New Castle Court House Museum provides a unique opportunity to stand where pivotal decisions were made that shaped the course of American history. It's a chance to connect with the past and gain a deeper understanding of Delaware's role in the founding of the nation.

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