Dover: The Heartbeat of Delaware

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [please/no problem]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [sor-ee]
• How are you?How you doin'?
  [how yuh doin']
• Fine. And you?I'm good. You?
  [ahm good. yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [yaw-l speak ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI ain't gettin' it
  [ah aint get-tin it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLet me see the menu, please
  [let me see the menu, please]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [ah don't eat meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI need to settle up, please
  [ah need to settle up, please]

• Help!Help!
  [help!]
• Go away!Get outta here!
  [get out-ta here!]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops!]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc!]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [ahm lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [ahm sick]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [ah wanna buy...]
• I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [ahm just look-in']
• How much is it?How much is this?
  [how much is this?]
• That's too expensiveThat's too much
  [that's too much]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya bring the price down?
  [can ya bring the price down?]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [it's one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [half past (10)]
• MorningMorning
  [morning]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
• EveningEvening
  [evening]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yesterday]
• TodayToday
  [today]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [tomorrow]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
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• 8Eight
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• 9Nine
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• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [what's the address?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [can you show me (on the map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [when's the next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to ....)]

Dover, the capital city of Delaware, was founded in 1683 by William Penn. As part of Penn's efforts to establish organized governance in the region, Dover was laid out as a townsite. Its central location within the state made it a prime spot for government activities and trade.

In 1777, Dover was designated as the capital of Delaware, a strategic move during the American Revolutionary War. The decision to relocate the capital from New Castle to Dover was driven by its central location and safer inland position, providing protection from British naval attacks.

On December 7, 1787, Delaware became the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. This historic event took place at the Golden Fleece Tavern in Dover. The tavern served as a meeting place for legislators and played a crucial role in Delaware's early statehood.

During the Civil War, Dover, like much of Delaware, was a border area with mixed loyalties. Though Delaware remained a Union state, there were significant pro-Confederate sentiments. Dover's strategic position meant it was a site of various military and supply activities.

In 1941, Dover Air Force Base was established, transforming the area into a significant military hub. The base played vital roles during World War II, the Korean War, and continues to be an important installation for the U.S. Air Force, contributing to both the local economy and national defense.

Historic Downtown Dover is rich with preserved architecture and landmarks dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The Green, a public square laid out in 1717, remains a focal point for community events and historical reenactments, reflecting the town's colonial heritage.

The Johnson Victrola Museum, located in Dover, celebrates the life and achievements of Eldridge Reeves Johnson, founder of the Victor Talking Machine Company. The museum showcases early phonographs and memorabilia, highlighting Dover's contribution to the music industry.

Dover played a role in the Civil Rights Movement, with notable events such as the desegregation of public schools following the Brown v. Board of Education decision in 1954. Local activists and community leaders in Dover worked towards achieving equality and justice, shaping the town’s social landscape.

Since 1920, the Delaware State Fair has been held annually in Harrington, near Dover. This event showcases the agricultural heritage of the region, featuring livestock exhibits, horticultural displays, and a variety of entertainment options, making it a significant cultural event in Dover's calendar.

Dover International Speedway, also known as the 'Monster Mile,' opened in 1969 and has since become a premier destination for NASCAR fans. The speedway hosts several major racing events each year, drawing large crowds and contributing to Dover's reputation as a motorsport hub.

Dover is accessible by various means. The closest major airport is Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), about 70 miles north of Dover. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Dover. Alternatively, you can fly into Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), located approximately 85 miles away. If you prefer traveling by train, Amtrak services Wilmington, DE, which is about 50 miles from Dover; from there, you can take a bus or taxi. Greyhound and regional bus services also connect Dover to other major cities.

Dover offers various transportation options. The city has a local bus service operated by DART First State, which covers major routes within Dover and connects to other parts of Delaware. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. For more flexibility, consider renting a car. Many attractions are within walking distance in downtown Dover, making it pedestrian-friendly.

The United States Dollar (USD) is the official currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Dover, including in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, especially in commercial areas and near banks. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and street vendors that may not accept cards.

Dover is generally safe for tourists, but caution is advisable as in any city. Areas around downtown are usually safe, but avoid venturing alone at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. Keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. Crime rates are relatively low, but petty theft can occur. Always be aware of your surroundings and follow local news for any updates on safety.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Dover has several medical facilities, including Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus, which provides comprehensive healthcare services. Pharmacies are also readily available for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that includes medical coverage. The Dover Police Department is located at 400 S. Queen St.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Casual attire is generally acceptable, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local religious practices and be considerate when visiting places of worship. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't be loud or disruptive on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. It's customary to use 'Mr.' or 'Ms.' followed by the last name until invited to use first names. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Delaware cuisine, such as blue crabs and scrapple. Don’t forget to tip service staff, typically 15-20% of the bill.

To experience Dover like a local, visit the First State Heritage Park, a collection of historical and cultural sites. Attend a race at the Dover International Speedway if your visit coincides with a race weekend. Stroll through the weekly farmers' market at Loockerman Way Plaza to sample fresh local produce. Engage with locals at events and festivals for an authentic experience. Don't miss the Air Mobility Command Museum, which offers a deep dive into aviation history.