First State National Monument

National Park Service, Delaware.

Famous as the First State to ratify the Constitution, Delaware was born out of a conflict among three world powers for dominance of the Delaware Valley. From this beginning, the region developed a distinct character that tolerated diversity in religion and national origin and valued independence.

Nearby Activities

  • Biking
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Historic & Cultural Site
  • Horseback Riding
  • Picnicking

Directions

First State National Historical Park is made up of six individual sites throughout Delaware and southeastern Pennsylvania that explore early settlement through the ratification of the US Constitution. Please visit the individual pages for directions or hours of operation.

Additional Information

  • First State National Monument Official Website
  • First State National Monument Map

Photo Gallery

  • The Dover GreenEach fall, an 18th Century Market Fair is recreated to commemorate the original purpose of The Green.
  • Ryves Holt HouseThe Ryves Holt House is said to be the oldest known house in Delaware.
  • New Castle Court HouseThe New Castle Court House Museum was the first court of Delaware and has seen a variety of significant moments in history.
  • Old Swedes Historic SiteOld Swedes Historic Site contains burials that can be traced back to the original settlement of the Swedes.
  • Fort ChristinaThis site commernmates the Swedes original landing and the fort that once stood in the area.
  • First State National Monument
  • Brandywine ValleyThe Brandywine Valley unit is most known for its recreational opportunities.
  • John Dickinson PlantationJohn Dickinson is most famously known as the "Penman of the Revolution" at this site, visitors learn the stories of the many residents: tenant farmers, indentured servants, free and enslaved Black men, women, and children and the Dickinson family.

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