Wilmington: An American World War II Heritage City
One of the most intriguing parts of visiting a new city is to uncover the area’s history and the nuances that built the ground you walk on. The city of Wilmington, Delaware, is a must-see for history buffs. Decorated with history, historical buildings, and museums with preserved artifacts, Delaware's largest city is not shy about its beginnings. Here's a quick history lesson to prepare you for your visit to the city of Wilmington.
Wilmington's Historic Ties to WWII
Did you know Wilmington is recognized as an American World War II Heritage City? This highlights its wartime military, production, and training efforts. The city played a significant role in World War II through industry and shipbuilding. The Dravo Corporation, a Wilmington-based company, was responsible for leading the production of landing crafts for the U.S. Navy during the war, playing an undeniably important role in revolutionary attacks like the D-Day invasion of 1944.
Wilmington's chemical industry also shined during WWII, with the DuPont Company taking responsibility for the mass production of gunpowder and explosives. And the area's factories produced several types of machinery and vehicles to keep the transportation of troops and supplies running during the war.
Visitors can step back in time with a visit to Hagley Museum and Library, the site of the original DuPont gunpowder mills. Then visit the Delaware History Museum where you’ll get an opportunity to learn the vast history of First State history including on the role the city of Wilmington played during World War II.
Wilmington and Shipbuilding
During World War II, the residents of Wilmington, Delaware, and the greater region rallied in support of the war effort. Many joined the U.S. military, while those on the home front engaged in conservation efforts, supported community-based aid and training programs, and led war bond drives to fund shipbuilding. Wilmington’s shipyards and factories became key contributors to wartime production, with local workers making a significant impact on the nation’s success.
More than 200 ships were built in Wilmington during WWII. The city's proximity to the Delaware River made it a central transportation hub during the war, leading to a booming economy. Ship production opened many job opportunities, and companies like the Dravo Corporation skyrocketed the city's industrial growth. The building of liberty ships and tank landing ships in Wilmington, including the signature "Wilmington type," was so outstanding during this era that the Dravo Corporation earned the prestigious "E" award for excellence from the U.S. Navy. This honor showed the significant contribution Wilmington made to the war.
DHS Dravo Wilmington LST under construction, February 23, 1944. (Photo: Delaware Historical Society. Used with permission.)
Wilmington Named WWII Heritage City
So what does it really mean to be an American WWII Heritage City? Well, the honorary title can only be gifted to one city in each state. To earn this label, a city must have notable historical significance, preservation, community efforts and documentation. Receiving this recognition means a lot to the greater Wilmington community. The National Park Service solidified the city of Wilmington as a WWII Heritage City in 2023, celebrating the shipyard and other industrial workers, countless volunteers and fundraisers who shaped the city’s WWII legacy. This award highlights city history, the historic structures that evoke it, and the ways in which we honor and remember the sacrifice of our citizens.
The city has remained strong enough in its roots not only to earn the honor of being named a Heritage City but also to attract many visitors each year in awe of its rich historical attractions. With its responsibility to continue upholding its legacy, the city of Wilmington could see a rise in special exhibitions, educational initiatives, and other events. Visitors should look out for any activities going on at the city's historical sites.
Wilmington Today
Given Wilmington's close involvement in WWII, many of its citizens were impacted by the events of this wartime era. The city pays its respects and remembers those people in a variety of meaningful ways. Visitors can walk along Riverfront Wilmington on the Christina River, stopping at Dravo Plaza to see historic markers as well as a few large cranes still remaining from its shipbuilding days. At H.B. du Pont Plaza in downtown Wilmington, visitors will find Timothy Duffield's WWII Memorial sculpture, and there's also a separate Veteran's Memorial in Brandywine Park, which properly pays tribute to Delaware African American Medal of Honor recipients.
WWII Memorial, H.B. duPont Plaza, Wilmington, Delaware, Timothy Duffield, sculptor, 1991-92 (Photo: Debra Martin)
The Delaware Military Museum holds precious personal weapons and uniform remains of soldiers. Visitors can also find preserved documents to study and get a feel for just how much of a trailblazer Wilmington was. These locations hold great significance because they serve as reminders of the selflessness, hard work, dedication and sacrifices of the people who fought for freedom during an event that would change the course of history.
The city of Wilmington is uniquely and powerfully woven by some of the most innovative men and women of the past. Its imprint on society, specifically during the WWII era, will not be forgotten and is marvelously preserved and admired by people from around the world. It's truly a sight worth seeing. When visiting the city of Wilmington, Delaware explore all the sights and bites of the city, and uncover its rich history along the way.
For more information on the National Parks Service's American World War II Heritage City program, click here.
