Elaine Brenchley, First State Heritage Park, (302) 739-9194, elaine.brenchley@state.de.us, or Necia Beck, Delaware State Parks, (302) 739-9175, Necia.Beck@state.de.us
Meet John Philip Sousa and kick off Independence Weekend at First State Heritage Park’s free First Saturday events on July 2
DOVER (June 28, 2011) – On Saturday July 2, the First State Heritage Park presents its monthly “First Saturdays in the First State” event in Dover. Performances by the Capital Ringers and by Eddy Segar portraying John Philip Sousa join a series of programs, tours and exhibits to fill the first day of this year’s holiday weekend.
Regular First Saturday activities include the two capitol buildings in Delaware’s capital city –The Old State House, which served as the seat of Delaware’s General Assembly from 1791 to 1933, and Legislative Hall, which has served this function since 1933.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours of both capitol buildings from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and also visit the Governor’s House at Woodburn from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and the John Bell House from 9:30 a.m.to 4:30 p.m. Tours and exhibits are also available from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Johnson Victrola Museum and the Biggs Museum of American Art, which also features its monthly “Biggs Kids” program.
Admission to all sites and activities is free. Centrally located free parking is available at the First State Heritage Park Welcome Center and Galleries, located at 121 Duke of York Street. For more information about The First State Heritage Park programs, the public may call (302) 739-9194 or visit: www.destateparks.com/heritagepark.
“First Saturday” Activities on Saturday, July 2:
9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
The First State Heritage Park Welcome Center and Galleries
121 Duke of York Street
The Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs presents two exhibits:
USS Delaware: An American Battleship. The story of the USS Delaware (1909-1924), told through objects, photographs, and ceremonial silver.
The Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs (continued)
The Civil War: Five Delaware Soldiers’ Stories
This exhibit recognizes the 150th anniversary of the beginning of the American Civil War. Through the state’s collection of objects, portraits and documents, personal experiences of the brutal journey through the War of the Rebellion are revealed.
Guided Tours of Legislative Hall – Delaware’s Capitol
Legislative Hall has been the seat of Delaware’s General Assembly, the supreme lawmaking body in the state, since 1933. Visitors may tour the House and Senate Chambers to learn about the legislature and Delaware history. Photo ID is required for all adults entering the building.
A Sousa Celebration!
Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New Street
The patriotic recordings that earned Sousa the title of “American March King” are played on original Victrola Talking Machines.
Biggs Picture: Award Winners XI Exhibition
Biggs Museum of American Art, 406 Federal Street
The annual “Award Winners” exhibition features the talent of the current Individual Artist Fellows of the Delaware Division of the Arts (DDOA). These Delaware artists represent visual, musical, sculptural, folk art and literary arts. The Biggs Museum’s permanent collection of American fine and decorative arts is also on view.
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Tours of the Governor’s House at Woodburn
151 Kings Highway
Visitors will enjoy guided tours of Woodburn, the official residence of Delaware’s Governor since 1965, as well as Hall House, the Governor’s guest house.
10 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Last tour leaves at 3 p.m.)
Walking Tour: Dover’s Heroes of the Revolution
Meet at the John Bell House on The Green
From the monuments of the Old Presbyterian Churchyard, to the historic sites around The Green, this guided tour takes visitors past the graves and former residences of Dover’s Revolutionary War heroes to reveal their stories and sacrifices.
10 a.m., Noon and 2:30 p.m.
We Poor Devils
First State Heritage Park Welcome Center and Galleries
The park offers guided interpretations of the current exhibition, The Civil War: Five Delaware Soldiers’ Stories.
10 a.m., Noon, and 1 p.m.
Belles, Belles, Belles
John Bell House on The Green
Participants will discover the finer points of being a Delaware Belle or Gentleman – skills which every elegant person of the 1700s knew. The John Bell House is open to visitors from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
11:30 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m.
Bells, Bells, Bells! The Capital Ringers Celebrate Independence Weekend!
The Old State House on The Green
The Capital Ringers will offer three performances in The Old State House courtroom featuring patriotic tunes from their extensive repertoire. The Old State House is also open for tours from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
The Sousa Band Years, 1892-1932
Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New Street
Visitors to the Johnson Victrola Museum will have an opportunity to meet John Philip Sousa when living-history performer Eddy Segar brings the legendary American composer and bandleader to life. Audience members are encouraged to ask questions and talk with Sousa, who will remain in character throughout his appearances. In addition to the living-history programs, the museum’s Sousa celebration will feature Sousa recordings played on authentic Victor Talking Machines, as well as historical information about America’s “March King.”
2 – 3 p.m.
Biggs Kids – Button Blossoms
Biggs Museum of American Art, 406 Federal Street
Children will create glittery fireworks in honor of the 4th of July. Festive paper and tons of glitter will be on hand to help children get into the mood for the time-honored holiday celebration. Recommended for ages 5 to 10. Reservations are required, and may be made by calling (302) 674-2111.
The First State Heritage Park at Dover is 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. The park 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.
Vol. 41, No. 242
