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John Dickinson Plantation: A Window into 18th-Century Delaware

Step back in time at the John Dickinson Plantation, exploring the life of a Founding Father and the stories of those who shaped 18th-century Delaware.

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Explore the life and times of John Dickinson, a Founding Father and 'Penman of the Revolution,' at his meticulously preserved 18th-century plantation. Tour the historic mansion, wander through recreated outbuildings, and reflect on the stories of those who lived and labored here, including enslaved people, tenant farmers, and indentured servants.

A brief summary to John Dickinson Plantation

  • 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

Local tips

  • Check the official website for the most up-to-date information on hours of operation and special events.
  • Arrive early to view the film and exhibits in the visitor center before taking a guided tour of the mansion.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on the plantation grounds.
  • Consider visiting during one of the plantation's special events, such as the Historic Trades Day, for a more immersive experience.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The John Dickinson Plantation is located southeast of the Dover Air Force Base. From Route 1/113, take Exit 91 for Route 9 Kitts Hummock/Little Creek. Once on Route 9, turn right onto Kitts Hummock Road. Follow Kitts Hummock Road to the plantation entrance. Ample, free parking is available.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the John Dickinson Plantation using public transportation, take a DART First State bus from the Dover Transit Center. Board Route 103 towards Kitts Hummock and disembark at the Kitts Hummock Rd & Kitts Hummock Beach stop. From there, it is a short 0.5-mile walk to the plantation. Be sure to check the DART First State schedule for bus times and possible fares. A one-way bus fare is typically around $2.00.

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Discover more about John Dickinson Plantation

The John Dickinson Plantation, located near Dover, Delaware, offers a compelling glimpse into the life of John Dickinson, a key figure in the founding of the United States, and the diverse community that inhabited his 18th-century plantation. Known as the 'Penman of the Revolution' for his influential writings, Dickinson's story is interwoven with those of the enslaved Africans, indentured servants, and tenant farmers who lived and worked on the land. Visitors can explore the meticulously restored Dickinson mansion, 'Poplar Hall,' which was initially built in 1739 but rebuilt in 1804 after a fire. Guided tours, led by interpreters in period clothing, offer insights into the daily lives of the Dickinson family and those who labored on the plantation. The visitor center provides context with exhibits and a film about Dickinson's life and the plantation's history. The plantation grounds feature recreated outbuildings, including a tenant house and a working farm complex, providing a tangible sense of the agricultural activities that sustained the estate. The site also includes an African burial ground, a poignant reminder of the enslaved people who were an integral part of the plantation's history. Dickinson freed his slaves in 1786, influenced by the Quaker community's stance against slavery. The John Dickinson Plantation is more than just a historic site; it's a place for reflection on the complexities of the past and its relevance to the present. It encourages dialogue about the difficult narratives surrounding the founding of the United States, including the paradox of fighting for freedom while holding people in bondage.

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