Last updated: August 16, 2024
Place
New Castle Court House Museum
NPS Photo
Quick Facts
Location:
211 Delaware Street, New Castle DE 19720
Significance:
The New Castle Courthouse was built in 1732 and served as the meeting place for the state's colonial assembly from 1732-1777. It is here where the Delaware Assembly voted on June 15, 1776 to separate from England and from Pennsylvania, creating the "State of Delaware."
Designation:
National Historical Landmark; Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Site
Amenities
14 listed
Accessible Rooms, Accessible Sites, Benches/Seating, Cellular Signal, Fire Extinguisher, First Aid Kit Available, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present, Restroom, Restroom - Accessible, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Tactile Exhibit, Wheelchair Accessible
The New Castle Court House, built in 1732, operated as the General Assembly and the courts for the Three Lower Counties of Pennsylvania. In the second floor Assembly room on June 15, 1776, thirteen delegates voted and declared their independence from Pennsylvania and Great Britain thus becoming the Delaware State. This town served as the capital of Delaware until 1777 when it was moved to Dover in fear of being easily captured due to its proximity to the Delaware River. This building continued to operate as a court on the State and Federal level until 1881 when the courts moved to Wilmington. Over the years, it has been expanded to allow for more record storage and offices. Similar to most other historic buildings, it has seen a variety of uses such as a store, police station, jail, mayor’s office, restaurant, school rooms and much more. Through guided interpretation and exhibits, visitors will learn about Delaware’s history through the eyes of the Native Americans, the first European settlers, law makers, prisoners and judges, runaway slaves and the freed African American community.