77 Interesting and Unique Fun Facts about Delaware! Nestled in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, Delaware holds the unique distinction of being the 45th most populous and the 49th most extensive state among the fifty. Its historical significance is unparalleled as it was the pioneering state to join the union on December 7, 1787, setting the foundation for the United States as we know it today.
Delaware shares its borders with three neighboring states: New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maryland, each contributing to its cultural diversity and economic dynamics. Situated strategically within the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern regions, the state thrives as a pivotal geographical point in the nation’s fabric.
Known by several endearing monikers such as “the First State,” “the Small Wonder,” and “the Blue Hen State,” Delaware encapsulates a sense of pride and identity among its residents. Its three counties form the backbone of its administrative structure and cultural diversity, fostering a unique sense of community among Delawareans.
Dover stands tall as the capital city, symbolizing Delaware’s governance and heritage. This city pulsates with historical significance, reflecting the essence of the state’s journey since its inception. Delaware’s statehood marked a pivotal moment in American history, igniting a series of events that shaped the nation’s course.
The people who call Delaware home, affectionately known as Delawareans, embody the spirit of resilience and progress. Their contributions across various sectors—from economy to culture—have woven an intricate tapestry that defines the state’s identity on a global scale.
Delaware’s rich history, diverse geography, and robust economy beckon exploration and understanding. Unraveling its past, navigating its landscapes, and delving into its economic prowess paint a comprehensive picture of this remarkable state.
76 interesting and unique fun facts about Delaware
1. Wilmington: Delaware’s Vibrant Urban Center
Wilmington, as Delaware’s largest city, thrives with a bustling urban atmosphere, merging historical charm with modern vitality. Renowned for its economic prowess, cultural diversity, and significant historical legacy, it stands as a testament to the state’s dynamism and progress.
2. The Blue Hen: Symbol of Delaware’s Patriotism
In 1939, Delaware adopted the blue hen as its state symbol, paying homage to the birds carried by revolutionary soldiers for entertainment. This iconic symbolizes the state’s history and patriotism.
3. Bob Marley’s Wilmington Connection
Bob Marley, the legendary figure in Reggae music, once called Wilmington home. He lived at 2313 N Tatnall for 12 years starting in 1965. During this period, he worked at DuPont as a lab assistant and at Chrysler as a forklift driver. Additionally, his mother managed the Roots Music Store on market street until 1976.
4. Delaware’s County Quirk
Delaware boasts only three counties—New Castle, Kent, and Sussex—the fewest among all states in the United States. In contrast, Texas holds the record for the most counties with a staggering 254.
5. County Sizes in Delaware
Sussex reigns as the largest county in Delaware, spanning 950 square miles, followed by Kent with 594 square miles and New Castle with 438 square miles. This variation in size showcases the diverse landscapes and areas within the state’s counties.
6. Henry Hudson’s Exploration
Henry Hudson, sailing for the Dutch, is credited with discovering Delaware in 1609, marking the beginning of its historical narrative.
7. Middletown’s Historical Roots
Despite lacking a navigable waterway, Middletown’s origins lie in its connection to trade. It emerged as a pivotal stop on an old cart road between Bohemia Landing in Maryland and Appoquinimink Creek in Odessa, earning its name as Middletown.
8. The Heimlich Maneuver: A Life-Saving Invention
Delawarean Henry Heimlich introduced the Heimlich Maneuver in 1975, a pivotal method in reducing choking-related deaths. Within a year, this technique gained recognition from the American Heart Society for its life-saving capabilities.
9. Milford’s Political and Renewable Energy Contributions
Milford City in Delaware has been the home to seven of the state’s 74 governors, including Ruth Ann Minner, the first female governor. Additionally, Milford hosts the largest solar-harnessing farm in Delaware, contributing significantly to renewable energy.
10. The Origin of Delaware’s Name
Delaware received its name in 1610, honoring the first governor of Virginia, Sir Thomas West, also known as Lord De La Warr, signifying the state’s connection to early American governance.
11. Lewes: The Pioneering Town
First settled by the Dutch in 1631, Lewes proudly claims the title of being the inaugural town in the first state of Delaware, marking the early roots of the state’s foundation.
12. The First Log Cabin’s Arrival
In 1638, near the mouth of the Delaware River, Swedish and Finnish settlers erected North America’s first log cabin, marking a significant milestone in the continent’s architectural history.
13. Delaware’s Constitutional Legacy
Delaware made history on December 7, 1787, as the first state to ratify the United States Constitution, earning the esteemed nickname, the “First State,” signifying its pioneering role in the nation’s constitutional framework.
14. Dover: A Crucible of Constitutional Development
Dover played a pivotal role in shaping the US Constitution. Delegates from the original 13 colonies congregated at the Golden Fleece Tavern to deliberate on the draft, culminating in the historic agreement on December 7, 1787. While the tavern no longer stands, a commemorative marker stands on its original site.
15. Delaware: A Treasured “Jewel”
Legend has it that Thomas Jefferson referred to Delaware as a “jewel” among states due to its strategic position along the East Coast, acknowledging its significance and value in the nation’s landscape.
16. Delaware’s Compact Size and Population Density
Following Rhode Island, Delaware claims the title of the second smallest state in the US. Despite its small stature, it ranks as the sixth most densely populated among the fifty states, showcasing a unique juxtaposition of size and population density.
17. Newark’s Flag-Flying Historical Moment
During the Revolutionary War’s Battle of Cooch’s Bridge, Newark witnessed the first flying of the US flag in battle. Despite facing overwhelming odds and suffering defeat, the experience gained during this conflict proved valuable for future endeavors.
18. Ebright Azimuth: Delaware’s Highest Point
Ebright Azimuth, soaring at 447.85 feet above sea level near Ebright Road in New Castle County, stands as Delaware’s highest elevation. In contrast, the state’s lowest point aligns with sea level along its coast.
19. Delaware’s Mean Elevation and Contrasting States
Delaware holds the distinction of possessing the lowest mean elevation of any state, standing at 450 feet. This stands in stark contrast to Colorado, which boasts the highest mean elevation among all states, reaching a towering 14,440 feet.
20. Oliver Evans: Pioneer in Automotive Innovation
Delawarean inventor Oliver Evans, born in 1755, pioneered America’s first automobile in 1805, marking a monumental leap in automotive history. Notably, his creation also stood as the world’s inaugural amphibious car.
21. Fisher’s Popcorn: Delaware’s Global Culinary Contribution
Founded in 1937, Fisher’s Popcorn stands as one of Delaware’s proud exports, shipping its delicious treats to countless countries worldwide, highlighting the state’s culinary prowess and global reach.
22. The Chicken Phenomenon in Delaware
Chickens hold a special place in Delawarean culture, with the current chicken population outnumbering humans at a striking ratio of 200 to 1. The poultry and egg industry, accounting for 75% of the state’s agricultural production, underscores the significant role of chickens in Delaware’s economy.
23. Sussex County’s Poultry Dominance
Sussex County reigns as the top producer of broiler chickens in the United States. This county proudly hosts the headquarters of three of the nation’s Top 20 broiler-producing companies, solidifying its pivotal role in the poultry industry.
24. The Unforgettable Delmarva Chicken Festival
The Delmarva Chicken Festival of 1950 grabbed headlines for an extraordinary reason. In a spectacle held in Maryland, attendees witnessed a world record as a colossal 10-foot frying pan emerged, frying 800 chicken quarters in 180 gallons of oil, marking an unforgettable culinary feat.
25. The Vibrant Delaware State Fair
Drawing approximately 300,000 visitors annually, the Delaware State Fair hit a record attendance of 328,000 during its centennial celebration in 2021. This fair serves as a cultural highlight, showcasing the state’s heritage and entertainment prowess.
26. Caesar Rodney’s Heroic Vote for Independence
In a pivotal moment in 1776, the deciding vote for American Independence was cast by Caesar Rodney, who embarked on an eighty-mile ride to Philadelphia through adverse weather conditions of rain and thunder. His dedication and determination played a crucial role in shaping America’s history.
27. Sweet Goldenrod: Delaware’s State Herb
In 1996, Delaware honored the Sweet Goldenrod as its state herb. This herb not only holds cultural significance but also serves as a vital nutrition source for the flourishing bee population across the state.
28. Eastern Tiger Swallowtail: Delaware’s State Butterfly
Delaware is home to the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly, designated as the state’s butterfly in 1999, showcasing the state’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty.
29. Ladybug: Delaware’s Endearing State Bug
In 1974, Ms. Mollie Brown-Rust’s 2nd-grade class championed the cause for the ladybug to be recognized as Delaware’s state bug. After a year-long effort, their persistence paid off when lawmakers granted approval, crowning the ladybug as the state bug.
30. Delaware’s Unique State Macroinvertebrate: The Stonefly
Delaware made history in 2005 by selecting the stonefly as its state macroinvertebrate. Chosen for its reliance on pristine water sources, the stonefly symbolizes the state’s commitment to maintaining high-quality water systems.
31. Delaware’s Endangered Species Protection
Delaware houses a staggering 86 endangered species, including the Red Knot bird and the Leatherback sea turtle. These species benefit from US laws that offer protection and conservation measures to safeguard their existence.
32. Delaware’s Bike-Friendly Recognition
Ranked as the third most bike-friendly state in the US, Delaware’s commitment to cycling infrastructure and culture underscores its dedication to promoting eco-friendly and healthy transportation options for its residents and visitors.
33. Smyrna’s Historic Houses and the Underground Railroad
Smyrna boasts around 490 houses qualifying for the National Register of Historic Places. Among these, the Pope-Mustard Mansion preserves the essence of the Underground Railroad Era, offering a tangible link to the past. Notable structures like the Allee House and Lindens further contribute to Smyrna’s well-preserved historical landscape.
34. Old Swedes Church: A Testament to Delaware’s Colonial Legacy
Dating back to 1698-1699, Old Swedes Church in Wilmington stands as a testament to Delaware’s colonial heritage. Constructed by descendants of Swedish colonists, this church embodies the historical roots of the early settlers aboard the Kalmar Nyckel in 1638.
35. Nemours Estate: A Marvel of Louis XVI Design
The exclusive Nemours Estate in Delaware boasts Louis XVI styling, constructed in 1910. Spanning 47,000 square feet with 105 rooms and a sprawling 300-acre garden, the estate underwent a $39 million restoration in 2010 and welcomes public tours, showcasing grandeur and historical significance.
36. Linguistic Diversity in Delaware
Approximately 91% of Delaware’s population aged 5 and above primarily speak English at home. Meanwhile, nearly 5% converse in Spanish, reflecting a moderate level of linguistic diversity within the state.
37. Millionaire Population Distribution
Delaware ranks ninth in the United States for the number of millionaires per capita. States like Maryland, New Jersey, and Connecticut top this list respectively, showcasing varying concentrations of wealth among states.
38. Delaware’s Corporate Appeal and Business-Friendly Environment
Delaware’s business-friendly corporate laws make it a corporate haven. Over 50% of all publicly traded companies in the US and 66% of Fortune 500 companies are incorporated in Delaware. The state’s ease and affordability for incorporation, even for businesses operating primarily outside the state, underscore its corporate allure.
39. Delaware Memorial Bridge: A Major Connection
The Delaware Memorial Bridge, joining Delaware with New Jersey, is one of the world’s longest suspension bridges, serving as a crucial link for transportation.
40. Delaware’s Size and Shape
Delaware spans 96 miles in length and ranges from 9 to 35 miles in width, showing how it varies in size across the state.
41. Seaford: Home of Nylon
Seaford, Delaware, housed the world’s first Nylon plant, where Nylon, a famous fiber, was first mass-produced in 1937, earning the town the title “Nylon Capital of the World.”
42. Seaford’s Boundary Tale
Originally part of Maryland, Seaford and parts of southern and western Sussex County became part of Delaware due to a boundary mapping error. Even after debates and court rulings, Seaford officially became a part of Delaware, contributing to the state’s historical boundary changes.
43. Annie Jump Cannon: Stellar Pioneer
Annie Jump Cannon, a native of Dover, made astronomical history by classifying over 225,000 stars based on their temperature. Notably, she became the first woman to hold an officer position in the American Astronomical Society, marking a milestone in science and gender equality.
44. Corporate Hub of Delaware
Delaware boasts an impressive count of over a million registered corporations, solidifying its status as a prime destination for businesses, showcasing a thriving corporate environment.
45. Pea Patch Island’s Unique Naming Origin
Pea Patch Island gained its name when a ship transporting peas encountered a mishap, spilling its cargo and inadvertently fostering the growth of new pea plants, etching a botanical legacy into the island’s identity.
46. Horseshoe Crabs in Delaware Bay
Delaware Bay proudly hosts the world’s largest population of horseshoe crabs, emphasizing its role as a critical habitat for these intriguing marine creatures.
47. USS Delaware: Maritime Tribute
Several ships have been christened USS Delaware in honor of the state, symbolizing Delaware’s significant contributions and historical importance in the realm of maritime heritage.
48. Delaware’s Sales Tax Distinction
Delaware stands among the exclusive five states in the US without a sales tax, sharing this distinction with Alaska, Oregon, Montana, and New Hampshire, offering a unique tax landscape within the nation.
49. Horseshoe Crabs: Ancient Creatures and Medical Contributions
Delaware boasts the world’s largest population of horseshoe crabs, creatures that have roamed the Earth for over 200 million years, predating even the dinosaurs. Their blood, utilized by medical researchers, serves in testing intravenous drugs, vaccines, and medical devices, highlighting their crucial role in scientific advancements.
50. Delaware County in Pennsylvania
Interestingly, Pennsylvania houses a county named “Delaware County,” establishing a curious geographical connection with Delaware despite being in a separate state.
51. Kent County: Geographic Center of Delaware
Kent County marks the geographic center of Delaware, situated approximately 11 miles south of Dover, signifying its central position within the state.
52. Delaware’s Coastal Length
Despite its small size, Delaware boasts a coastline measuring 28 miles (45 km), ranking as the 22nd longest among all US states. Notably longer coastlines are found in Alaska, Florida, California, Hawaii, Louisiana, Texas, North Carolina, Oregon, Maine, and Massachusetts, respectively.
53. Bees’ Vital Role in Delaware’s Agriculture
With over 7,200 bee colonies, bees play a crucial role in Delaware’s ecosystem. The bee and honey industry in the state amount to a substantial $2.5 million, contributing significantly to the $30 million agricultural industry by pollinating various fruits and vegetables, emphasizing their indispensable role in agriculture.
54. Delaware’s Post-WWII Towers
After World War II, tall observation towers were built along Delaware’s coast. Today, 11 of these towers still stand as historic remnants.
55. First Scheduled Railroad in Delaware
Delaware had the first scheduled railroad in 1835, connecting New Castle to Maryland and various parts of Philadelphia, marking a big leap in transportation.
56. Historic Methodist Gathering
Barratt’s Chapel in Frederica hosted the first Methodist Church of America gathering in 1784, a crucial moment for this religious community.
57. Thomas Edison and Beauty Pageants
Thomas Edison, the famous inventor, judged the first Miss United States beauty pageant held in Rehoboth Beach in 1880.
58. Dogfish Head Breweries
Dogfish Head Breweries in Milton makes 175,000 barrels of beer yearly and is highly regarded among the best breweries in the US. They offer free tours!
59. University of Delaware’s Study Abroad
In 1923, the University of Delaware started the first study abroad program in the US. In 2023, it celebrates 100 years of global education.
60. University of Delaware’s Doctoral Programs
In 2018, the University of Delaware awarded 321 doctoral degrees. STEM fields are among its popular choices.
61. First State National Historical Park
Delaware’s only national park, the First State National Historical Park, began in 2013, preserving 1,100 acres of land.
62. Clifford Brown Jazz Festival
Wilmington’s Clifford Brown Jazz Festival, in its 36th year in 2023, is the east coast’s largest free jazz festival, drawing over 2,000 attendees.
63. Wolf Cave: Delaware’s Only Natural Cave
Wolf Cave in Beaver Valley is Delaware’s lone natural cave, offering a glimpse of the state’s unique geological features.
64. Delaware’s State Song: “Our Delaware”
“Our Delaware,” the state song since 1925, celebrates the counties and virtues of Delaware.
65. Oliver Evans and Flour Milling
Oliver Evans pioneered automated flour milling near Newport around 1785, revolutionizing flour production.
66. Georgetown’s Unique Layout and Diversity
Georgetown’s town layout centers around a circle and stands out for its diverse population.
67. Elsmere’s Neat Size and Parks
Elsmere measures exactly one square mile but boasts several parks within its small area.
68. Ryan Phillippe and Acting
Actor Ryan Phillippe, known for various roles, is from New Castle, adding Hollywood charm to Delaware.
69. “Punkin Chunkin” Game
Delaware hosted the “Punkin Chunkin” game since 1986, where participants threw pumpkins extraordinary distances. Sadly, the game ended in 2016.
70. Winterthur Museum
The Winterthur Museum in Winterthur, Delaware, was once the home of Henry Francis du Pont, a plant expert and collector. It has an amazing 175 rooms and showcases displays accessible to the public.
71. Du Pont Company
Founded in 1802 as a gunpowder mill, the Du Pont Company in Delaware grew to be the world’s largest chemical firm. It merged with other companies between 2015 and 2017.
72. Steampunk Treehouse
A colossal 40,000-foot steampunk treehouse, once part of the “Burning Man” festival, found its new home in Milton in 2010, purchased by the Dogfish Head Brewery.
73. Zwaanendael Museum: Remembering Early Settlers
The Zwaanendael Museum honors Delaware’s first European settlers from 1631. It displays coastal life, shipwreck exhibits, and artifacts from the War of 1812, sharing the state’s history.
74. Redbird Reef: Human-Made Ocean Habitat
Delaware’s Redbird Reef spans 1.3 square miles and consists of retired tanks, subway cars, tugboats, and a cruise ship. It’s boosted marine life on the coast by 400 times.
75. Wilmington’s Giant Lego Tower
Wilmington boasts the world’s tallest Lego tower at 112 feet, surpassing Prague’s record by 6 feet, showcasing the city’s creativity.
76. Delaware’s Historic Flag
In 1977, Delaware flew the Betsy Ross U.S flag featuring stars in a circle, paying tribute to older flag designs.
77. Delaware Park’s Epic Poker Tournament
Delaware Park held the longest poker tournament in 2011, lasting 36 hours, 34 minutes, and 11 seconds. Peter Konas emerged as the victor in this impressive test of endurance.
Also Check: 73 Interesting and Unique Fun Facts about Florida
Facts About the Flag of Delaware
| Fact #1 | The flag was designed by Cole Dev Schrock in a contest and officially adopted on July 24, 1913. |
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| Fact #2 | The flag features a colonial blue background and a buff-colored diamond at the center. |
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| Fact #3 | Inside the diamond is the state’s coat of arms with the date “December 7, 1787” engraved beneath it. This date marks Delaware’s ratification of the federal Constitution, making it the first state to join the union. |
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| Fact #4 | During national events like presidential inaugurations, Delaware receives top priority due to its status as the first state to ratify the Constitution. |
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| Fact #5 | The flag colors, colonial blue and buff, were chosen by the Textile Color Card Association. Initially, they were designated by the Bureau of Standards, now the NIST (National Institute of Standards & Technology). |
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| Fact #6 | The governor of Delaware uses an official flag with a golden edge and a pole for mounting it on a blue state bird statue. |
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| Fact #7 | The flag’s colors, blue and buff, were inspired by General George Washington’s uniform during the American Revolution. |
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| Fact #8 | The coat of arms showcases symbols representing Delaware’s agriculture, including an ox, wheat, and corn, reflecting its 18th-century culture and lifestyle. |
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| Fact #9 | The motto “Liberty and Independence,” endorsed in 1847, appears beneath the shield of the coat of arms. |
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| Fact #10 | The coat of arms includes symbols like a farmer, soldier, sailing ship, and agricultural produce, emphasizing Delaware’s farming, military history, and coastal trade. |
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| Fact #11 | The diamond at the flag’s center might symbolize Delaware’s earlier nickname, the “Diamond State,” highlighting its economic significance despite its relatively smaller size. |
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| Fact #12 | The symbols on the flag represent the importance of farming, the military, cattle ranching, agricultural produce, trade, and transportation in Delaware’s history and economy. |
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Delaware: Quick Facts and State
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| State Capital | Dover |
| State Abbreviation | DE |
| Statehood | December 7, 1787 |
| State rank by population | 45th |
| State Size | Total (Land + Water): 2,489 sq miles; Land Only: 1,954 sq miles |
| Longitude | 75° 3′ W to 75° 47′ W |
| State rank by area | 49th |
| State rank by date of formation | 1st |
| State Marine animal | Horseshoe Crab |
| Highest Point | Near the Ebright Azimuth – 447.85 ft (136.50468 m) |
| State Nickname | Diamond State; First State |
| State Flower | Peach Blossom |
| State Butterfly | Eastern tiger swallowtail |
| State Dog | Golden Retriever |
| State Fish | Weakfish |
| State Fossil | Belmnites |
| State Herb | Sweet goldenrod |
| State Macroinvertebrate | Stonefly |
| State Mineral | Sillimanite |
| State Tall Ship | The Kalmar Nyckel |
| State Tree | American holly |
| State Bird | Blue Hen Chicken |
| State Bug | Ladybug |
| State Fruit | Strawberries |
| State Motto | Liberty and Independence |
| % Water | 21.7 |
| Number of Counties | 3 |
| Population | 1,018,396 (Estimate July 1, 2022) |
| Mean elevation | 60 feet above sea level |
| Length | 96 miles (154 km) |
| Width | 30 miles (48 km) |
| Latitude | 38° 27′ N to 39° 50′ N |
| Lowest point | Atlantic Ocean – Sea level |
| Bordering States | Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania |
| Official Language | None |
| Governor | John Carney (D) |
| Lieutenant Governor | Bethany Hall-Long (D) |
| Electoral Votes | 3 |
| Noble prize winners | Daniel Nathans (Physiology or Medicine, 1978) |
| Famous people | Aubrey Plaza (Actress), Teri Polo (Actress), Elisabeth Shue (Actress) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone |
| Website | delaware.gov |
| Area Codes | 302 |
| Table last updated | November 15, 2023 |
Interesting and Unique Fun Facts about Delaware: FAQs
When did Delaware become a state, and why is it called the “First State”?
Delaware became a state on December 7, 1787, and is nicknamed the “First State” because it was the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution.
What are the geographical dimensions of Delaware?
Delaware covers a total area of 2,489 square miles, including both land and water, with a land area of 1,954 square miles. It measures approximately 96 miles in length and 30 miles in width.
What is the population of Delaware and its rank among U.S. states?
The estimated population of Delaware as of July 1, 2022, is 1,018,396. It ranks as the 45th most populous state in the United States.
Who are some notable people associated with Delaware?
Notable individuals from Delaware include Aubrey Plaza (Actress), Teri Polo (Actress), Elisabeth Shue (Actress), and Nobel Prize winner Daniel Nathans (Physiology or Medicine, 1978).
What is the state motto and nickname of Delaware?
Delaware’s state motto is “Liberty and Independence,” and it is known as the “Diamond State” and the “First State.”
What are some natural landmarks or features in Delaware?
Delaware features various natural attractions, including its coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, the Delaware River, and the beautiful American Holly, which is the state tree.
