Mifflin-Marim Agricultural Complex
DE 9, Dover, DEThe Mifflin-Marim Agricultural Complex dwelling is a late example of eighteenth-century building traditions in that it was constructed after 1818 on an eighteenth-century model.
Except for some interior decoration on stairs, mantels, and windows, there is nothing about this dwelling that would indicate that it is anything but an eighteenth-century dwelling. In fact, previous field workers have identified a tentative construction date as sometime in the 1770s. This was primarily based on an inspection of the exterior and interior paneling of the south parlor and the second floor. However, the mantels and woodwork in the north parlor appear to be original and not second-generation additions. An additional clue to its late construction date is the presence of the collar beams in the roof framing system. These were not normally used in Delaware roofs in the eighteenth century.
The dwelling is thus an excellent example of the conservative nature of central Delaware Architecture. Most domestic structures built further north of this particular structure, and at the same time, reflect the stylistic influences of the nineteenth century. However, this house is constructed on straight eighteenth-century principles. The only major variation is the use of the ridge beam in the roof. This innovation was only beginning to be introduced in Delaware at this time. It is important to note that it was an internal innovation that did not involve stylistic alterations to the building.
There is also documentary evidence for its late construction date. The land it stands on is a part of the Willingbrook tract that was originally granted to John Stevens of Maryland. By the mid-eighteenth century his grandson, Henry Stevens, had control of the tract of land south of Muddy Branch. This tract was known as Chipping Norton.
When Henry Stevens died in 1789, he gave the land on the north side of Route 9 to his daughter Hannah. She was the wife of John Marim. When John Marim died in 1817, his lands were also split among his heirs. Kent County Orphans Court kept a detailed account of the estate and the case file contains a February 17, 1818 plot that shows how the land was to be divided. The eldest son Charles was to receive the home farm of his father. The plot shows the boundary line and also clearly indicates the presence of a dwelling. The only other dwelling or mention of a dwelling is on the portion of land given to son Thomas near Cowgills Corner. The portion of land that the Mifflin-Marim House is currently on contains no indication that a house was standing there at all. Given the care that went into the production of the plot and division of land. If a house had BFBRahbe8artt would have been listed in the inventory or documentation of the
Local significance of the building:
Except for some interior decoration on stairs, mantels, and windows, there is nothing about this dwelling that would indicate that it is anything but an eighteenth-century dwelling. In fact, previous field workers have identified a tentative construction date as sometime in the 1770s. This was primarily based on an inspection of the exterior and interior paneling of the south parlor and the second floor. However, the mantels and woodwork in the north parlor appear to be original and not second-generation additions. An additional clue to its late construction date is the presence of the collar beams in the roof framing system. These were not normally used in Delaware roofs in the eighteenth century.
The dwelling is thus an excellent example of the conservative nature of central Delaware Architecture. Most domestic structures built further north of this particular structure, and at the same time, reflect the stylistic influences of the nineteenth century. However, this house is constructed on straight eighteenth-century principles. The only major variation is the use of the ridge beam in the roof. This innovation was only beginning to be introduced in Delaware at this time. It is important to note that it was an internal innovation that did not involve stylistic alterations to the building.
There is also documentary evidence for its late construction date. The land it stands on is a part of the Willingbrook tract that was originally granted to John Stevens of Maryland. By the mid-eighteenth century his grandson, Henry Stevens, had control of the tract of land south of Muddy Branch. This tract was known as Chipping Norton.
When Henry Stevens died in 1789, he gave the land on the north side of Route 9 to his daughter Hannah. She was the wife of John Marim. When John Marim died in 1817, his lands were also split among his heirs. Kent County Orphans Court kept a detailed account of the estate and the case file contains a February 17, 1818 plot that shows how the land was to be divided. The eldest son Charles was to receive the home farm of his father. The plot shows the boundary line and also clearly indicates the presence of a dwelling. The only other dwelling or mention of a dwelling is on the portion of land given to son Thomas near Cowgills Corner. The portion of land that the Mifflin-Marim House is currently on contains no indication that a house was standing there at all. Given the care that went into the production of the plot and division of land. If a house had BFBRahbe8artt would have been listed in the inventory or documentation of the
Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1984.
About National Register Listings
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.
The District of Delaware is home to several historic landmarks, including the Old New Castle Courthouse, which was built in 1732 and served as the state's first courthouse, and the Nemours Estate, a mansion built in the early 20th century by Alfred I. du Pont. The district is also home to several museums, including the Delaware Art Museum and the Hagley Museum and Library.
About Kent County
Kent County Timeline
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.
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.
Kent County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey 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.