Celebrate “Delaware Day” at The First State Heritage Park

DOVER (Nov. 22) - “Delaware Day” commemorates Delaware’s ratification of the United States Constitution on Dec. 7, 1787 – an act that made Delaware the “First State.” Delaware’s ratification, which took place in Elizabeth Battell’s tavern on The Green in Dover, may have been unanimous, but it was not without controversy and concern. 

The First State Heritage Park revisits this momentous event on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 3 and 4 with a candlelit historical theater event: “Fully, Freely, and Entirely” – Becoming the First State at the Old State House on The Green.

Under the glow of candlelight in the historic atmosphere of the Old State House, the audience will step back in time to Dec. 1787 to encounter delegates to the ratification convention, as well as 18^th-century businesswomen, protestors, tavern keepers and slaves.  In addition to listening in on these conversations from the past, audience members can participate in the debate, and join in the celebration with toasts and “huzzahs!”  Refreshments follow the program.

Two performances each night begin at 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Ticket-holders will meet at the John Bell House on The Green. Admission is $10 per person. Pre-registration is required and attendance is limited to 25 per performance. Reservations may be made by calling 302-739-9194. 

More information about this and other programs is available at (302) 739-9194 or online at www.destateparks.com/heritagepark

The First State Heritage Park at Dover is a partnership of state agencies, under the leadership of Delaware State Parks, working in collaboration with city and county government, nonprofit organizations and the private sector to create Delaware’s first urban “park without boundaries” linking historic and cultural sites in the city that has been the seat of state government since 1777.   

Vol. 40, No. 391