Explore a ‘History Revival’ at the New Castle Court House Museum

Northern Delaware’s maritime history is often overlooked, but infinitely interesting. On Thursday afternoons in August, the New Castle Court House Museum (with help from the New Castle Historical Society) will host a speaker or offer an educational entertainment event starting at 4:30 p.m. Each event will last approximately 45 minutes, with 15 minutes following for audience questions. Reservations are not required, but seating is limited.

The New Castle Court House Museum also is partnering with The Mercury Cafe and Teahouse in New Castle for happy hour while Jessop’s Tavern and Zollie’s Jazz Cucina will offer periodic specials and other fantastic dinner options for those looking to continue their evening in historic New Castle.

On Aug. 3, Wade Catts will speak about the archaeological history of Fort Casimir, the first structure built in New Castle, which dates back to 1651 in his presentation, “A Fortress…which the Hollanders call Fort Casimir: Searching for Fort Casimir, 1905-2019.”
On Aug. 10, Mike Dixon will present “From Here to There: Ferries and Bridges Cross the Delaware,” a maritime-focused history of the era of ferries.
On Aug. 17, Kyle Parks will host a discussion on the past and present Kalmar Nyckel.
Aug. 24, Keith Henley of the American Historical Theatre will portray James Forten, an African American abolitionist and sailor, and explore his work at sea following the Revolutionary War.
Aug. 31, join Professor Bill Manthorpe for a discussion on Captain Thomas Read, an oft-forgotten Revolutionary War hero and the creator of the continental Navy.

This series of events is taking the place of the annual Chautauqua program and is an effort to make historical programming more easily accessible to more people. Check back soon for the next “History Revival” series to be held at the Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes!