National Register Listing

Barratt Hall

a.k.a. Philip Barratt House

S of Frederica off DE 372, Frederica, DE
In 1784 Bishops Thomas Coke and Francis Asbury met in the house with Mrs. Miriam Barratt and eleven preachers. They held council here which ended in sending Freeborn Garrettson to summon preachers to the Christmas Conference in Baltimore, at which the Methodist Church in America was organized.

Philip Barratt and his brother Roger, born in Cecil County, Maryland, settled in Kent County some time before 1755. Philip Barratt farmed land originally granted as "Williams Chance" to Thomas Williams and Peter Groendyk in 1680. In addition, Philip Barratt engaged in the shipping trade with Philadelphia. He was appointed High Sheriff of Kent County by Governor John Penn in 1775, and elected Sheriff in 1776. Philip Barratt was also a justice of the peace for the county, and was elected to the State Legislature. However, Barratt is known chiefly for his participation in the founding of the Methodist Church in America. He donated land and, together with Waitman Sipple, erected Barratt's Chapel in 1780.

The Barratt house and farm passed to Caleb Barratt, one of the sons of Philip and Miriam Barratt. James Barratt, the son of Caleb, moved to Milton in 1823 and the house passed from the control of the Barratt family.
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Religion

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture religion
Delaware was the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, and as a result, the state played an important role in the early history of the United States. In the early years of the country, Delaware was known for its thriving shipping industry, and the District of Delaware was an important port for goods coming in and out of the state.
Delaware random facts
Kent County, located in the state of Delaware, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the colonial era. The area was originally inhabited by the Lenape people before European settlers arrived in the early 17th century. The first permanent European settlement in the county was established by the Dutch in 1631, but they were soon displaced by the English who took control of the region.

During the 18th century, Kent County played a significant role in American history, particularly during the American Revolution. The county's proximity to important waterways, such as the Delaware River, made it a strategic location for trade and transportation. Dover, the county seat, became the state capital in 1777 and hosted the state's constitutional convention. It was also the site of the historic Golden Fleece Tavern, where the Constitution of Delaware was ratified.

In the 19th century, Kent County experienced economic growth and development, largely centered around agriculture and industry. The county became known for its large agricultural estates, such as Dover's Green Thatch Plantation, which contributed to the region's prosperity. With the advent of railroads, transportation became more efficient, allowing for easier movement of goods and people.

In the 20th century, Kent County saw further growth and diversification. The establishment of Dover Air Force Base during World War II brought economic opportunities and employment to the area. Additionally, the county's location between two major cities, Philadelphia and Baltimore, contributed to its role as a transportation hub and a growing business center. Today, Kent County continues to thrive as a blend of agricultural, industrial, and residential communities, while also preserving its historical heritage through numerous museums, historic sites, and landmarks.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Kent County, Delaware.

  • 1680: Kent County was established as one of three original counties in Delaware.
  • 1682: The county's first courthouse was built in Duck Creek Crossroads, now known as Smyrna.
  • 1701: Kent County became the new capital of Delaware, replacing New Castle.
  • 1777: The Battle of Cooch's Bridge, the only Revolutionary War battle fought in Delaware, took place in the county.
  • 1787: Delaware became the first state to ratify the United States Constitution at the Golden Fleece Tavern in Dover.
  • 1829: The Delaware Railroad was established, connecting Kent County to the growing transportation network.
  • 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment, abolishing slavery, was ratified by Delaware in Dover.
  • 1978: The Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village opened in Dover, showcasing the county's agricultural history.
  • 2013: Kent County celebrated its 330th anniversary with various events and activities.