Nanticoke Indian Museum, Delmarva Peninsula Travel Guide

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Discover the vibrant culture and enduring legacy of the Nanticoke people at Delaware's only Native American museum.

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Nanticoke Indian Museum

The Nanticoke Indian Museum in Millsboro, Delaware, stands as a tribute to the Nanticoke people, one of the oldest Native American tribes in the United States. Founded in 1984, the museum is the only Native American museum in Delaware and a National Historic Landmark, preserving and celebrating the tribe's history, culture, and traditions.

A brief summary to Nanticoke Indian Museum

26673 John J Williams Hwy, Millsboro, Delaware, 19966, US
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Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Nanticoke Indian Museum.

Check the museum's website or call ahead for information on special events, such as powwows or cultural demonstrations.
Consider visiting in September to attend the annual Nanticoke Powwow, a celebration of Native American traditions with dance, food, and crafts.
Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the exhibits and the history of the Nanticoke people.
Explore the gift shop for authentic Nanticoke crafts and souvenirs, supporting local artisans.

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Getting There

Driving

The Nanticoke Indian Museum is located at 26673 John J Williams Hwy, Millsboro, DE 19966. From Millsboro, head east on DE-24/John J Williams Hwy. The museum will be on your right. Parking is available next to the building. There are no tolls on this route.
Public Transport

DART First State bus #201 can be taken from Delaware Seashore State Park towards Rehoboth Beach. Get off at the nearest bus stop and follow John J Williams Hwy to the museum. Check DART's website for schedules and fare information. A single ride fare is typically around $2.

Discover more about Nanticoke Indian Museum

The Nanticoke Indian Museum offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Nanticoke people, who have inhabited the Delmarva Peninsula for over 14,000 years. The museum, housed in a former two-room schoolhouse on land donated by the Harmon family, showcases thousands of artifacts that illustrate the Nanticoke way of life, traditions, and craftsmanship.Exhibits feature stone tools dating back to 8000 B.C., pottery, beadwork, and traditional clothing, including deerskin garments adorned with intricate beadwork. A highlight is the rattlesnake necklace, crafted from the snake's vertebrae. Visitors can also view a dugout canoe, used for fishing and crabbing, and a diorama with taxidermied animals representing the region's wildlife. The museum also displays artwork from tribal members.The museum's mission is to educate visitors about the Nanticoke people, their history, and their ongoing presence in Delaware. It hosts guided tours, lectures, workshops, and demonstrations, and special events like powwows and cultural gatherings. These events offer opportunities to experience Nanticoke traditions firsthand. The museum also has a gift shop that sells authentic Nanticoke crafts, including jewelry and dreamcatchers.