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Dutch House Museum: A Colonial Gem

Explore colonial life in New Castle, Delaware at the Dutch House Museum, featuring Dutch and European antiques in a late 17th-century home.

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Step back in time at the Dutch House Museum, one of the oldest houses in Delaware, dating back to the late 17th century. Explore Dutch colonial and European antiques, offering a glimpse into the lives of early settlers in New Castle.

A brief summary to Dutch House Museum

  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the New Castle Historical Society website for the most up-to-date information on hours of operation and special events.
  • Purchase tickets for the Dutch House and Amstel House tours at the New Castle Visitor Center at the Arsenal, located at 30 Market Street.
  • Combine your visit to the Dutch House with a tour of the nearby Amstel House and other historical attractions in New Castle.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Dutch House Museum is located in the heart of New Castle's historic district at 32 E 3rd St. If you are already in the historic area, such as at the New Castle Court House Museum or the New Castle Visitor Center at the Arsenal, it is easily accessible by foot. From the Visitor Center, walk south on Market Street, then turn right onto E 3rd Street. The Dutch House will be on your left. Allow approximately 5-10 minutes for the walk. There is no cost associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    DART First State Route 15 serves the historic area. The nearest bus stop to the historic area is located at Sixth and Delaware Streets. From the bus stop, walk west on E 6th St, then turn left onto N Castle St, and finally turn right onto E 3rd St. The Dutch House Museum will be on your right. A one-way fare within the city limits is $1.00.

  • Car

    If arriving by car, navigate to 32 E 3rd St, New Castle, DE 19720. From I-95, take Exit 5A for DE-141 S toward New Castle. Continue past the Routes 13 & 40 overpass and follow signs for DE-273 E, which will lead you into New Castle. Turn left onto E 3rd St, and the Dutch House Museum will be on your left. Free on-street parking is available throughout New Castle. Public parking lots are also available at Second and Chestnut Streets, on West Third Street, the corner of West Third and South Streets, and at West Third & Battery Park. Parking regulations should be observed.

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Discover more about Dutch House Museum

The Dutch House Museum, located in historic New Castle, Delaware, offers a captivating glimpse into the region's rich colonial past. While initially believed to be a Dutch-built home, it was later discovered to have been constructed using English methods, reflecting the blend of cultures in early New Castle. The house dates back to the late 17th century, with evidence suggesting construction between 1690 and 1710. Inside, visitors can explore a collection of Dutch colonial and European antiques, showcasing the lifestyles and traditions of the early settlers. The museum features artifacts such as a kas (an unusual cupboard), a spoon rack, and a 1714 Bible. The house itself has undergone several transformations throughout its history, including a remodeling in 1823 that gave it a Federal-style appearance. The Dutch House has served various purposes over the centuries, including as a rental property, a storehouse for the Immanuel Episcopal Church, and even a take-out luncheon shop and speakeasy during Prohibition. In 1937, the Delaware Society for the Preservation of Antiquities purchased the house and began its restoration, later deeding it to the New Castle Historical Society in 1946. Today, the New Castle Historical Society operates the Dutch House. A visit to the Dutch House offers a unique opportunity to experience the atmosphere of a 17th-century Dutch colony and learn about the early history of New Castle, one of Delaware's most historic towns.

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