An Afternoon in Historic New Castle, Delaware

Historic New Castle feels like a step back in time, where cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and centuries-old stories create an unforgettable experience. As one of the most well-preserved historic towns in the country, it offers visitors a chance to walk in the footsteps of early American settlers, revolutionaries, and even a few legendary figures. 

Recognized by HGTV as one of the 50 Most Charming Small Towns in America, this waterfront town along the Delaware River blends history with modern-day vibrancy. Once Delaware’s first capital, Historic New Castle continues to celebrate its past with events like Separation Day and A Day in Old New Castle, which marks its 100th anniversary in 2025. Whether exploring its museums, dining in quaint cafés and colonial taverns, or simply taking in the scenic views at Battery Park, visitors will find that New Castle isn’t just preserving history—it’s bringing it to life. 

A Town Steeped in Revolutionary Legacy 

History comes to life in Historic New Castle, where every brick and cobblestone tells a story of resilience and revolution. From its earliest settlers to its role in the fight for independence and equality, this charming town has witnessed some of the most pivotal moments in American history.  

New Castle’s past is marked by a series of power struggles. The land changed hands multiple times—first settled by the Dutch in 1651, then taken by the Swedes in 1654, before the Dutch reclaimed it in 1655. By 1664, the English seized control, and after a brief Dutch resurgence in 1673, the British permanently claimed the land, renaming it New Castle. 

On June 15, 1776, the New Castle Court House became the setting for another turning point in history. Local leaders gathered to declare independence from the Penn family and England, establishing Delaware as its own entity. Just weeks later, three Delaware delegates rode on horseback to Philadelphia, where they signed the Declaration of Independence. 

Nearly a century later, the courthouse bore witness to another battle—this time, for freedom and equality. Abolitionist Thomas Garrett was tried here and stripped of his wealth for aiding 2,700 escaped freedom seekers through the Underground Railroad. Unshaken, he famously declared that he would do it all over again in the name of equality. Today, the New Castle Court House Museum, now part of the First State National Historical Park, draws thousands of visitors each year to explore its profound legacy.  

Echoes of the Past: Ghosts, Crime, and Celebrities 

With a history as rich as New Castle’s, it’s no surprise that the town is filled with dramatic tales—some dark, some legendary, and some eerily supernatural. The courthouse fire of 1729 was deliberately set by a prisoner hoping to escape execution. Though he succeeded in burning down the courthouse, his freedom was short-lived. He was caught, retried in a nearby tavern, and executed anyway. The infamous execution of Clara, a woman publicly hanged over a pit of fire for allegedly murdering her husband. Some say her ghost still lingers on The Green, whispering, “I’m innocent.” Hollywood icons Katharine Hepburn and Shirley Temple once dined at an elegant tearoom near the courthouse before catching a ferry to New Jersey. 

A Town That Lives and Breathes Its History 

Strolling through Historic New Castle feels like stepping into another era. Cobblestone streets wind past Georgian row houses and colonial-era buildings, each holding a piece of the town’s storied past. Locals, often accompanied by their pups, greet visitors with a warm, “Afternoon!” 

Jessop’s Tavern invites visitors to experience history firsthand. Servers in colonial attire serve hearty meals on pewter plates by candlelight, offering a glimpse into 18th-century life. Like many buildings in New Castle, the tavern has changed roles over the centuries, but its essence remains, preserving the spirit of the past for future generations to discover. 

Just a few doors up from Jessop’s is The Mercury Cafe and Teahouse, a charming spot where guests can sip expertly brewed teas in a setting that blends old-world elegance with modern comfort. Housed in the historic Penn’s Place, the tea house continues New Castle’s tradition of hospitality, offering a cozy retreat for visitors to relax and soak in the town’s timeless ambiance. 

Beyond the Court House and its incredible dining options, Historic New Castle is home to multiple attractions that showcase the neighborhood’s deep-rooted history. The Read House and Gardens, a stunning Federal-style mansion built in 1804, invites visitors to explore the grandeur of early American architecture and beautifully manicured grounds. Nearby, the Amstel House, one of Delaware’s oldest surviving homes, offers a glimpse into colonial life with its original woodwork and period furnishings. A short stroll away, the Dutch House transports visitors even further back in time, preserving the simple yet enduring craftsmanship of the town’s earliest European settlers. 

Towering over the town with its striking steeple, Immanuel Episcopal Church on the Green stands as a testament to New Castle’s spiritual and architectural history. Established in 1689, the church’s historic graveyard tells silent stories of the past, with tombstones dating back centuries, including those of Revolutionary War figures and early American leaders. 

Historic New Castle is more than just a town—it’s a living, breathing museum where the past whispers from every brick and cobblestone. Whether you’re drawn by the legends, the architecture, or simply a warm cup of tea at Mercury’s Tea House, there’s always a new story waiting to be uncovered. 

Plan your next afternoon in Historic New Castle!