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Hendrickson House Museum: A Glimpse into Swedish Colonial Life

Explore Swedish colonial history at Wilmington's Hendrickson House Museum, a captivating glimpse into 17th-century life.

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The Hendrickson House Museum in Wilmington, Delaware, offers a captivating look into early Swedish-American life. Built around 1690, the reconstructed farmhouse showcases the lives of Swedish settlers in the New Sweden colony. Visitors can explore colonial artifacts and learn about the Hendrickson family's history.

A brief summary to Hendrickson House Museum

  • Thursday 11 am-3 pm
  • Friday 11 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a Thursday, Friday, or Saturday between 11 AM and 3 PM, as these are the museum's operating hours.
  • Engage with the knowledgeable staff to gain deeper insights into the history and artifacts on display.
  • Explore the surrounding Old Swedes Historic Site, including the Holy Trinity Church and burial ground.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're in downtown Wilmington, the Hendrickson House Museum is easily accessible on foot. Head north on N Market St until you reach W 7th St, then turn left. Continue to N Church St and turn right; the museum is at 606 N Church St. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take the DART First State bus to the Wilmington Transit Center. From there, transfer to a bus that stops near N Church St. Walk north on N Church St to 606 N Church St. Bus fares are typically around $2.00.

  • Car

    Drive to 606 N Church St, Wilmington, DE 19801. Limited free parking is available in the cobblestone parking area adjacent to the Hendrickson House, with entry from Church Street. On-street parking is also available on 7th Street and Church Street. Check for parking fees, which may vary.

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Discover more about Hendrickson House Museum

Step back in time at the Hendrickson House Museum, a window into 17th-century Swedish colonial life in America. Originally built around 1690 in Chester, Pennsylvania, by Swedish farmer Andrew Hendrickson and his wife Brigitta Morton, the house was moved to its current location in Wilmington in 1958 to prevent its demolition. Today, it stands as a part of the Old Swedes Historic Site, which is a National Historic Landmark. The Hendrickson House offers visitors a glimpse into the daily lives, traditions, and contributions of early Swedish settlers. The museum features a collection of colonial artifacts, including period furnishings and historical documents. The pine mantel and woodwork around the large fireplace are original, while the floorboards were sourced from a Massachusetts farmhouse of the same era. Knowledgeable guides share the stories of the Hendrickson family and provide insights into the challenges and triumphs of settling in a new land. Visitors can learn about the construction techniques used in the 17th century and the cultural practices of Swedish immigrants. The museum also hosts special events and educational programs throughout the year, making it a vibrant part of the local community.

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