John Dickinson Plantation, The Dover Metropolitan Area Travel Guide

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Step back in time at the John Dickinson Plantation, exploring the life of a Founding Father and the stories of those who lived and worked on his 18th-century estate.

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 mansion, wander through the farm complex, and learn about the lives of those who lived and worked here, including enslaved people, tenant farmers, and indentured servants.

A brief summary to John Dickinson Plantation

340 Kitts Hummock Rd, Dover, Delaware, 19901, US
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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
Sunday 1:30 pm-4:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring John Dickinson Plantation.

Check the official website for the most up-to-date information on hours of operation and tour schedules.
Arrive early to allow ample time to explore the visitor center exhibits and watch the orientation film.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on the plantation grounds.

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Getting There

Driving

The John Dickinson Plantation is located southeast of Dover Air Force Base. From Route 1/113, take Exit 91 for Route 9 Kitts Hummock/Little Creek. Turn right onto Kitts Hummock Road, and follow it to the plantation entrance. Ample free parking is available on-site.
Public Transport

From the Dover Transit Center, take DART First State Route 103 towards Kitts Hummock. Disembark at the Kitts Hummock Rd & Kitts Hummock Beach stop. From there, it is a short 0.5-mile walk to the plantation. Single fares on DART First State buses typically cost $2.00.

Discover more about John Dickinson Plantation

The John Dickinson Plantation offers a compelling glimpse into the world of an 18th-century Delaware plantation. As the home of John Dickinson, a significant figure in the founding of the United States, the site provides a rich historical context for understanding the complexities of the era. Dickinson, known as the "Penman of the Revolution" for his influential writings, played a crucial role in shaping colonial opposition to British policies.The plantation itself, originally established in the 1730s, features a beautifully restored mansion, a working farm complex, and recreated outbuildings. Visitors can explore the grounds and delve into the lives of not only the Dickinson family but also the enslaved people, tenant farmers, and indentured servants who lived and labored there. The visitor center offers exhibits and orientation videos to provide context for the site's history and significance.Guided tours of the mansion, led by interpreters in period clothing, offer insights into the daily life of the 18th century. The plantation also grapples with the difficult history of slavery, acknowledging Dickinson's complex relationship with the institution. While Dickinson eventually manumitted his slaves, the plantation serves as a reminder of the contradictions inherent in a nation founded on ideals of freedom and liberty. The site includes a recreated slave/tenant house and an African burial ground, providing further opportunities to reflect on the experiences of those who were enslaved.