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Amstel House Museum: A Colonial Gem

Discover colonial history at the Amstel House Museum, an elegant 1738 Georgian mansion in historic New Castle, Delaware.

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Step back in time at the Amstel House Museum, an elegant Georgian mansion built in 1738 in New Castle, Delaware. Explore its rich history and admire the original woodwork and architectural details that reflect the lives of prominent colonial families.

A brief summary to Amstel 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 tour schedules and special events.
  • Purchase tickets at the New Castle Visitor Center at the Arsenal, located at 30 Market Street.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby Dutch House Museum for a comprehensive look at New Castle's history.
  • Explore the gardens surrounding the museum for a relaxing moment and reflection on the area's heritage.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Amstel House Museum is located in the heart of New Castle's historic district at 2 E 4th St. If you are already in the historic area, such as at the New Castle Court House Museum or the Green, walking is a convenient option. From the intersection of Delaware Street and Market Street, walk east on E 4th Street for a few blocks. The Amstel House Museum will be on your left. Walking is free.

  • Public Transport

    DART First State bus route 15 serves the historic area. Get off at the 'New Castle' stop on E 6th St, which is a short walk from the museum. From the bus stop, walk west on E 6th St, then turn left onto Delaware St, then turn left onto E 4th St. The Amstel House Museum will be on your right. A one-way bus fare is typically around $2.

  • Driving

    If driving, head towards New Castle, Delaware. From I-95, take exit 3 for US-13 N toward New Castle. Continue on US-13 N and merge onto DE-273 W. Follow DE-273 W and turn left onto S 4th St. After one block, turn right onto E 4th St. The Amstel House Museum will be on your left at 2 E 4th St, New Castle, DE 19720. 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.

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Discover more about Amstel House Museum

The Amstel House Museum, located in historic New Castle, Delaware, offers a captivating glimpse into 18th-century life. Built in 1738 by Dr. John Finney, a wealthy landowner, this elegant brick mansion is one of the town's few surviving early colonial buildings. The house showcases original woodwork, fine architectural details, and an open hearth, reflecting the style and refinement of New Castle's early prosperity. The Amstel House has been home to several prominent New Castle citizens, including Governor Nicholas Van Dyke, who hosted George Washington at his daughter's wedding in 1784. The museum's exhibits feature decorative arts, archival collections, textiles, furniture, and more, providing insights into the lives of the families who lived there. The house itself is set up to appear as if a family from the 1700s and 1800s still lived there. In the 19th century, the Amstel House mirrored the town's evolution as a transportation and administrative center. Later, environmentalist John Bird Burnham was born here in 1869. In June 1929, the New Castle Historical Society purchased the Amstel House and opened it as a museum. Today, the Amstel House Museum preserves and shares the rich history of New Castle, offering guided tours and special events throughout the year.

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