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Woodburn: Delaware's Historic Governor's House

Visit Woodburn, Delaware's Governor's House in Dover, for a glimpse into history and elegant Georgian architecture. Free tours available!

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Woodburn, built in 1798, has been the official residence of Delaware's Governor since 1965. This elegant Georgian-style home has housed abolitionists, judges, and doctors, and is known for its architecture and historical significance. Free tours are available by appointment.

A brief summary to Woodburn: Governor's House

Local tips

  • Tours are free but must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance.
  • Check the schedule for special events or guided tours to access the interior.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for the best views of the gardens.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Woodburn is located at 151 Kings Hwy SW in Dover. From the First State Heritage Park Welcome Center at 121 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, head southwest on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd toward E Loockerman St. Turn left onto S Governor's Ave, then turn right onto Kings Hwy SW. Woodburn will be on your right. The walk is about 0.3 miles and should take approximately 6 minutes. There is no cost for walking.

  • Public Transport

    The DART First State bus service operates in Kent County. From the Dover Transit Center, take a bus that stops near Division Street. From there, walk west on Division Street, turn left onto Kings Highway SW, and continue until you reach Woodburn at 151 Kings Hwy SW. The walk from Division Street is approximately 15 minutes. A one-way cash fare is $2.

  • Ride Share

    Use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft for a convenient trip to Woodburn. Input the address (151 Kings Hwy SW, Dover, DE 19901) into the app. Fares vary based on distance and time of day. As an estimate, a ride from the Dover Transit Center to Woodburn is approximately $9-$15.

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Discover more about Woodburn: Governor's House

Woodburn, also known as the Governor's House, has been the official residence of the Governor of Delaware since 1965. Constructed around 1798, it stands as one of the grandest homes in Kent County. The land it occupies was initially granted to David Morgan in 1684 by the Swedish Crown. Charles Hillyard III purchased the land in the 1780s and built the house. Over the years, Woodburn has been home to several notable figures, including an abolitionist who freed his family's slaves and allowed them to meet in the Great Hall, solidifying the house's place in Underground Railroad history. The house has seen many changes and owners, including Dr. Martin W. Bates, a U.S. Senator, and Daniel Cowgill, before being acquired by the state. First Lady Jessica Irby Terry oversaw the interior design during renovations, choosing furnishings that reflected the elegance of the late 18th-century Georgian style. Woodburn has hosted dinners, receptions, and public events, maintaining a sense of warmth and intimacy. Visitors can explore rooms like the Great Hall and view the portrait wall of First Ladies. Some even say Woodburn has a few ghostly local legends. Today, Woodburn is recognized for its architectural and historical importance.

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