Explore Legacy of Delaware: The Paintings of Howard Schroeder in Historic Odessa

Looking for a unique way to experience Delaware's history and artistic heritage? This summer, the Historic Odessa Foundation invites visitors to discover the work of one of the First State's most celebrated artists in a special exhibition that captures the beauty, character and changing landscapes of Delaware.  

Legacy of Delaware: The Paintings of Howard Schroeder (1910–1995) is on view through August 30, 2026, offering a rare opportunity to see the work of an artist whose paintings have become an enduring visual record of life across Delaware. 

A Love Letter to Delaware  

Howard Schroeder spent more than five decades painting the places that make Delaware special. From bustling waterfronts and quiet marshes to historic towns, farms and sailboats gliding across the coast, his work captures the landscapes and communities that have shaped the state's identity for generations. Known for his expressive brushwork and vibrant use of color, Schroeder's paintings go beyond documenting a place; they evoke the feeling of being there. Whether you've spent summers along Delaware's coast or are discovering these places for the first time, his artwork offers a timeless glimpse into the state's natural beauty and rich history. 

An Artist Who Helped Shape Delaware's Creative Legacy 

Born in New York City in 1910, Howard Schroeder studied art before serving at Fort Miles in Lewes during World War II. It was there that he fell in love with Delaware's coastal communities—a connection that would define the rest of his career. After the war, Schroeder and his wife, Marian, settled permanently in Delaware, where they opened an art supply store and gallery in Rehoboth Beach. Beyond his own paintings, Schroeder became a driving force in Delaware's arts community. He helped establish the Rehoboth Art League's celebrated Sketch Group and Outdoor Fine Art Show while mentoring generations of artists who followed in his footsteps. Over time, his style evolved from traditional Regionalism into a distinctive blend of realism and expressive abstraction, creating works that remain beloved by collectors and art enthusiasts today. 

A Rare Opportunity to See His Work 

The exhibition brings together paintings from private collections alongside works on loan from the Rehoboth Art League, many of which are rarely displayed publicly. Together, they tell the story of Delaware through the eyes of an artist deeply connected to its landscapes, people and history. Whether you're an avid art lover or simply appreciate local history, the exhibition offers a meaningful way to experience Delaware through a different lens. 

Explore Historic Odessa While You're There 

A visit to the exhibition is also the perfect excuse to spend time exploring Historic Odessa, one of Delaware's best-preserved colonial towns. Stroll tree-lined streets, admire beautifully restored 18th- and 19th-century homes, browse charming shops, and learn about the town's important role in Delaware's commercial history.  

The exhibition is housed inside the Historic Odessa Foundation's beautifully restored National Register Banking House, adding another layer of history to your visit. Pair your afternoon with lunch in nearby Middletown or continue your journey through Delaware's historic corridor by visiting nearby New Castle or the First State National Historical Park sites. 

Whether you're passionate about art, fascinated by Delaware history, or simply looking for a memorable day trip, this exhibition offers an inspiring look at one artist's lasting impact on the First State. Come experience Delaware through the brushstrokes of Howard Schroeder—and discover why his legacy continues to resonate today.