Last updated: May 1, 2024
Place
Sheriff's House
NPS Photo
Quick Facts
Location:
New Castle, Delaware
Significance:
First prison in Delaware.
Designation:
National Register of Historic Places
Amenities
17 listed
Accessible Rooms, Accessible Sites, Audio Description, Automated External Defibrillator (AED), Braille, Captioned Media, Cellular Signal, First Aid Kit Available, Gifts/Souvenirs/Books, Information, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present, Internet/WiFi Available, Junior Ranger Activity, Restroom, Restroom - Accessible, Tactile Exhibit, Wheelchair Accessible
The Sheriff’s House, on Market Street is a contributing feature to the New Castle National Historic Landmark Historic District and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The building was built in 1857. The attached jail, which was built at the same time, included about forty cells, two prison yards, and a whipping post and pillory. This jail was used until 1902 and was demolished in 1912.
While the prison yard and jail cells were removed in 1912, the rest of the building still stands. In 2024, the National Park Service restored the building to serve as First State NHP's first Welcome Center. Today, visitors can enjoy exhibits on the first floor that share nationally significant stories that shaped the nation’s first state through photos and audio-visual displays. Staff are also available to provide details about visiting partner sites throughout the state.The rehabilitation project also provided office space for National Park Service (NPS) staff on the second floor.
While the prison yard and jail cells were removed in 1912, the rest of the building still stands. In 2024, the National Park Service restored the building to serve as First State NHP's first Welcome Center. Today, visitors can enjoy exhibits on the first floor that share nationally significant stories that shaped the nation’s first state through photos and audio-visual displays. Staff are also available to provide details about visiting partner sites throughout the state.The rehabilitation project also provided office space for National Park Service (NPS) staff on the second floor.