New Castle, Delaware - open house day

Historic New Castle

New Castle, Delaware was originally settled by the Dutch West India Company in 1651 under the leadership of Peter Stuyvesant. Originally named Fort Casmir, the town changed name and ownership several times over the next 30 years and through the second and third Anglo-Dutch wars. It wasn't until 1680 that New Castle was conveyed to William Penn by the Duke of York and served as his landing place and where he first set foot on American soil on October 27, 1682.
The transfer of New Castle to William Penn raised disputes over boundary lines and was hotly contested by Lord Baltimore. The dispute led to a property survey conducted by Mason and Dixon - now famed in history for the Mason-Dixon Line.
Today, Historic New Castle, Delaware is located just 10 minutes south of downtown Wilmington, encompasses 3.2 square miles and is home to approximately 5,200 residents. Overlooking the Delaware River, Historic New Castle is the oldest continuously occupied town in the Delaware Valley. And, thanks to the efforts of legendary preservationist, Louise du Pont Crowninshield, this vibrant, fully occupied community remains one of the most important Colonial/Federal villages in America - second only to Williamsburg, Virginia in the number and authenticity of its historic structures.

Planning for the Museum Council’s 2016 Holiday House Tour: Houses with History is underway! This unique tour features homes that will not be opened for a public tour again for a generation–if ever. Don’t miss the unique opportunity to tour Wilmington’s most spectacular historic homes decorated for the holidays. The Tour will coincide with the Museum’s Annual Winter Arts Festival , which will feature 20 regional artisans and live holiday music. Proceeds support the Museum’s educational programs. WHAT WILL YOU SEE ON THE 2016 HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR? Have you noticed the mansion on Kennett Pike, which has undergone a remarkable renovation? After years of benign neglect and hiding behind a thicket of trees and underbrush, this home is being restored to its original glory. For privacy and noise control, the owners have planted a well-planned screen of greenery. Just wait until you see inside! Oberod, the family home Harry and Jane duPont Lunger built in the 1930s, has undergone major renovations and updating of systems to preserve this building without damage to its original design. Oberod may well have been the inspiration for the nickname “Chateau Country,” by which the Centreville, Delaware area is known. You’ll be able to drive up the sweeping driveway to the gorgeous ironwork gate at the entrance to the cobblestone courtyard. You’ll walk on the bricked sidewalk through that courtyard to the front entrance to the home. You’ll want to wear your walking shoes! Three other homes have had duPont family connections. Two of these places were in dreadful condition, and might have been lost, but for the thoughtful, well-planned, and extensive restorations they received from new owners. Each of the homes has a compelling history. You will have a glimpse into how modern families live in historic sites. A SPECIAL LUNCHEON LOCATION In addition to these five houses, we’ve reserved the Greenville Country Club , a former duPont family home named Owl’s Nest, for luncheon which will be opened only for those who purchase an additional luncheon ticket. A limited number of luncheon tickets will be available so please order yours early so you won’t be disappointed. No need to worry about parking; you’ll be able to drive right up to that canopy at the front door for valet parking–without an additional charge. WINTER ARTS FESTIVAL On Holiday House Tour day, your wristband/tour ticket will grant you admission to the Museum on Kentmere Parkway where, in addition to marvelous art collections, a well-stocked Museum Store, an excellent café, and delightful holiday music, you will find Winter Arts Festival with 20 first-rate artisans offering holiday gifts and artistic treasures. This festival will continue on Sunday as well. Click here to learns about the artisans. WHERE CAN YOU BUY TICKETS? ***Tour and luncheon tickets will be mailed out on or before November 1, 2016 .*** Tickets may be purchased using your credit card online and at the Museum. Use cash or checks at these retail locations: Everything But The Kitchen Sink, Janssen’s Market, Minster’s Jeweler’s in Newark, Old Country Gardens, Purple Sage Herbs & Gifts in Middletown & Studio 882 Furniture + Design in Glen Mills. If you decide you want luncheon tickets, please order them online or call or visit the Museum because they will not be available at these stores. All Delaware Art Museum members will receive a mailed invitation, which will contain a mail-in order form for both tour and luncheon tickets. Tour ticket are $35 with advance purchase and $40 on the day of the tour. Luncheon tickets will be $25. Please save the date and join us on this special day, Saturday, December 10, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.