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Hendrickson House Museum: A Glimpse into Swedish Colonial Life

Explore Swedish colonial history at the Hendrickson House Museum in Wilmington, Delaware, a window into 17th-century America.

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The Hendrickson House Museum, a reconstructed Swedish colonial farmhouse dating back to 1690, offers a unique glimpse into the lives of early Swedish settlers in America. Located in Wilmington, Delaware, as part of the Old Swedes Historic Site, the museum showcases colonial artifacts and provides insights into 17th-century life.

A brief summary to Hendrickson House Museum

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

Local tips

  • Take the guided tour for an in-depth understanding of the Hendrickson family and Swedish colonial life.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the adjacent Old Swedes Church and burial ground for a comprehensive historical experience.
  • Check the Old Swedes Historic Site website for special events and temporary exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Hendrickson House Museum is located in Wilmington's historic district and is easily accessible on foot from many downtown locations. From the Wilmington Riverwalk, head north on N Market Street, turn left onto W 7th Street, and then turn right onto N Church Street. The museum is located at 606 N Church Street. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The Hendrickson House Museum can be reached via DART First State bus service. From the Wilmington Transit Center, transfer to a bus heading towards the Wilmington Riverfront and get off at the stop closest to N Church St. Walk approximately 0.3 miles north on N Church St to the museum. A single bus fare is approximately $2.00.

  • Car

    The Hendrickson House Museum is located at 606 N Church St, Wilmington, DE 19801. From I-95, take exit 7 for Delaware 52 toward Wilmington. Continue on Delaware 52 for approximately 1.5 miles and turn left onto N Church St. The museum will be on your left. 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. Parking fees may vary.

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Discover more about Hendrickson House Museum

Step back in time at the Hendrickson House Museum, a meticulously reconstructed Swedish colonial farmhouse that offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of early Swedish settlers in America. Originally built in 1690 in Ridley Township, Pennsylvania, by Swedish farmer Andrew Hendrickson and his wife, Brigitta Morton, the house was moved to its current location in Wilmington, Delaware, in 1958 to prevent its demolition. Today, it stands as a proud part of the Old Swedes Historic Site, a National Historic Landmark that also includes the Holy Trinity Church and burial ground. Inside the Hendrickson House, visitors can explore a collection of colonial artifacts that paint a vivid picture of 17th-century life. The house itself is a testament to the craftsmanship of the era, featuring a large room for family activities and a bedroom on the upper floor. The pine mantel and woodwork around the large fireplace are original, while the floorboards were sourced from a Massachusetts farmhouse of the same period. The museum also features a Swedish gift shop. The Hendrickson House Museum offers guided tours that provide fascinating insights into the history of the house and the lives of the Hendrickson family. Knowledgeable guides share stories about the family's journey from Sweden and their experiences in the New World. Visitors can also learn about the construction techniques used to build the house and the challenges of preserving it for future generations. The museum is open Thursday through Saturday from 11 am to 3 pm.

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