PUBLIC NOTICE: Skeletal remains discovered in Long Neck, Sussex County

In accordance with Title 7 Delaware Code, Chapter 54, the Director of the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, Department of State, hereby gives notice of the discovery of unmarked human skeletal remains. The discovery was made outside the boundaries of a marked cemetery, known locally as “The Lingo Cemetery,” located at the southwest corner of the intersection of John J. Williams Highway (SR 24) and Indian Mission Road (SR 5), near Long Neck, in Sussex County. The discovery occurred as a result of construction activities related to development of the Community Bank Delaware property.

A total of 5 unmarked burials were confirmed to be present. At least one of these burials is that of a child. Additional unmarked burials may be present within the boundary of the marked cemetery. The date of the burials is likely between the 1860s and the 1920s, although there is potential for burials as early as the 1770s. Archival research indicates the burials may belong to members of the Lingo, Collins, and/or Marvel families.

Identified property owners during the potential period of the burials include the following. William John Lingo (1720-1770) and his wife Elizabeth A. Merritt Burns Lingo (1723-1788), Samuel Lingo Sr. (1740-1806) and his wife Comfort Stewart Lingo (1748-1796), Henry J. Lingo Sr. (1742-1831), Henry Lingo (1780-1853), Elisha Lingo (1784-1860) and his wife Elizabeth Foster Lingo (1784-?), Lemuel B. Lingo (1821-1861) and his wife Martha Collins Marvel Lingo (1827-1902), William E. Lingo (1833-1900), Thomas P. Collins (1821-1896) and his wife Lydia Lingo Collins (1835-?), and Charles S. Lingo (1858-?). Elisha G. Lingo (1851-1933) and John R. Lingo (1861-1937) were also owners, but are believed to be buried in other cemeteries.

Any persons who have reason to believe they may be lineal descendants of the unknown individuals discovered or have evidence they have relatives buried in this cemetery should contact the Director, Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, 29 North State Street, Dover, DE 19901-3611; telephone 302-736-7400 weekdays between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by September 13, 2024.