National Register Listing

Bullen, John, House

214 S. State St., Dover, DE
The brick house owned by the Farmers Bank of the State of Delaware, located on the west side of State Street between North and Loockerman streets, is a rare documented example of the work of a Dover master builder. It is the only surviving eighteenth-century domestic building known to have been built by, inhabited by, and owned by a Dover carpenter, Though somewhat modified since it was built, it is still a significant example of eighteenth-century Dover architecture. John Bullen, house carpenter, built the house during the Revolutionary War, between 1775 and 1781. When he purchased the land on which the house now stands from Vincent Loockerman, Jr. in 1775, the land was unimproved. When Bullen died in 1781, there was a mansion house on the land which he left to his wife Rachel. After her death, the house passed to her daughter, Rachel Bullen Bedwell, wife of John Bedwell.

In 1796, the Bedwells sold the house to Joseph Harper. The next year he sold it to Benoni Harris. - Thereafter, James Harper, Joseph Smithers, Thomas Harris, James C. Bird and James T. Bird were among the owners of the house. In 1866, Edwin M. Stevenson purchased the house; it remained in his family until 1931. James A. Downes purchased the house in 1931 and in 1947 he conveyed it to his daughter, Salome Downes Edgeworth. Finally, in 1959, she sold the house to the Farmers Bank of the State of Delaware.
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Social History

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

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 social history houses residential buildings
During World War II, the District of Delaware played an important role in the war effort. The city of Wilmington was home to several defense contractors, including the DuPont Company, which produced materials used in the construction of military vehicles, weapons, and equipment.
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 glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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.