Background

Amstel House Museum: A Colonial Gem

Discover colonial history at the Amstel House Museum in New Castle, Delaware, with its original architecture and stories of prominent families.

4.7

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-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets at the New Castle Visitor Center at the Arsenal before visiting the museum.
  • Check the museum's website for special events like 'A Day in Old New Castle' in May and the 'Spirit of Christmas' in December.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby Dutch House Museum for a comprehensive historical experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the New Castle Court House Museum, head east on E 2nd St, then turn left onto E 4th St. Continue straight for a few blocks; the Amstel House Museum will be located at 2 E 4th St on your left. This walk should take approximately 10-15 minutes. No cost for walking.

  • Public Transport

    From the Wilmington Transit Center, take the DART First State Bus Route 15 towards New Castle. Get off at the stop on E. 4th St. in New Castle. Walk east on E. 4th St for about 0.2 miles, and you will find the Amstel House Museum at 2 E 4th St on your right. A one-way bus fare is typically around $2.

  • Car

    From I-95, take exit 3A toward DE-273 E. Continue on DE-273 E until you reach New Castle. Follow the signs to 4th Street. The museum is located at 2 E 4th St. Street parking is available nearby, but be mindful of local parking regulations. Parking is free.

Unlock the Best of Amstel House Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Amstel House Museum

The Amstel House Museum, located in the historic town of New Castle, Delaware, offers a captivating glimpse into 18th-century colonial life. Built in 1738 by Dr. John Finney, a wealthy landowner, this elegant brick Georgian mansion showcases the architectural style and refinement of the era. The house is distinguished by its original woodwork, fine architectural details, and open hearth, providing a vivid illustration of the cultural phenomenon of the Colonial Revival. The Amstel House has a rich history, having been home to several prominent New Castle citizens, including members of the Van Dyke, Johns, Bird, and Burnham families. Notably, Nicholas Van Dyke, who would eventually become the seventh governor of Delaware, resided here. The house also played a role in Delaware's revolutionary efforts, with George Washington even visiting for the wedding of Van Dyke's daughter in 1784. From 1832 to 1904, the Amstel House was passed through four generations of a single family deeply involved in the town's commerce and office holding class. The last owner from this family, noted environmentalist John Bird Burnham, was born here in 1869. In June 1929, the New Castle Historical Society bought the Amstel House for a museum, saving it from imminent destruction. Today, the museum features a collection of colonial artifacts and offers guided tours that delve into the stories of the families who lived here and the events that shaped the region.

Popular Experiences near Amstel House Museum

Popular Hotels near Amstel House Museum

Select Currency