Details in Delaware: Celebrating Pride
“Details in Delaware” is a history-informed collaboration between Kara A. Briggs, an architectural historian with the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs State Historic Preservation Office, and Desiree May, the Division’s social media lead, to bring some interesting Delaware history facts and preservation information to the forefront.
The idea is to showcase the diversity of what the Division does, while also highlighting unique architectural features and landmarks to educate the public. Check out more interesting details like these by visiting the Division on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!
The Griffin Community Center, once located at 214 N. Market St. in Wilmington, was one of Delaware’s first gay community centers. It was founded by Ivo Dominguez Jr. and Jim Welch, who utilized the building for HIV/AIDS advocacy, Alcoholics Anonymous groups and other activities with a main focus of improving the lives of LGBTQ+ Delawareans.
This 3.5-story, Flemish bond brick, and painted building was originally constructed around 1890. In the early 20th century, its first floor was modified for commercial use, and residential spaces were housed on the upper floors. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in May 1980 as a contributing property in the Lower Market Street Historic District.
The building’s last known use was as the Delaware Lesbian and Gay Health Advocates before it was demolished in 2019 for the construction of a new multi-story, rental residential building and parking garage.