Delaware

The First State

Delaware may be small in size, but its place in American history is significant. Indigenous communities lived along its rivers and coastal areas long before Dutch, Swedish, and English settlements appeared during the 1600s. Delaware became one of the original thirteen states and earned its famous nickname, The First State, when it became the first to ratify the United States Constitution in 1787. Its location along the Delaware River and Atlantic coast made shipping, fishing, agriculture, and trade important to its development. Wilmington grew into the state's largest city and became associated with manufacturing, finance, business, and transportation, while Dover developed as the state capital. Delaware's farmland, beaches, coastal communities, and small towns provide a different character from its more urban northern region. Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, Bethany Beach, and other coastal destinations have become popular places for visitors, while the state's central location between major East Coast metropolitan areas continues to influence its economy. Delaware's story is one of an historic small state with an outsized place in the American journey—combining colonial heritage, coastal living, business, agriculture, and communities that have grown along the waterways of the Mid-Atlantic.

I've been there.
I know that place.
Delaware is part of my story.

DELAWARE
The First StateExplore the places. Learn their stories. Remember the journey.

MILEAMERICA
Wear the Journey.