Delaware Boundary Markers
a.k.a. Transpeninsular Line;Mason-Dixon Line;Tangent Line;The Arc;T
State boundary lines between DE-MD/DE-PA, Not Applicable, DEWhen Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon completed their boundary survey between the Penn and Calvert proprietaries, their report represented the most sophisticated mathematical work every accomplished on the North American continent to that date, 1768. The remarkable accuracy of their survey is testimony to the high development that had been reached by scientific instruments.
Politically, the boundary lines represent an important turning point in the history of Delaware. Until the western boundary of the three lower counties (Delaware) was finally established, large tracts remained vacant for want of clear title. When the boundary was finally settled, the land in lower Delaware west of tidewater could be confidently developed.
Mason and Dixon's report, when it was accepted, resolved the long-standing conflict between the two proprietaries, and ended a court battle that had begun in 1682, with the issuance of William Penn's vague royal charter. Because both proprietors could construe their charters to include much of the same territory, both colonies claimed jurisdiction over Sussex County, Delaware, parts of the northern counties of Delaware, and the territory around the present Maryland-Pennsylvania boundary.
The boundary markers survive today in a remarkably good state of preservation. Most of the original stones still are in place; at some points, they are preserved in public parks, but most can be found along hedgerows or in the woods. A very few of them have been mistreated, moved, or defaced. Others have been lost and replaced with newer markers. The historical societies of Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland have each preserved crown-stones in their museums; these removed stones have been replaced with replicas.
Local significance of the district:
Politically, the boundary lines represent an important turning point in the history of Delaware. Until the western boundary of the three lower counties (Delaware) was finally established, large tracts remained vacant for want of clear title. When the boundary was finally settled, the land in lower Delaware west of tidewater could be confidently developed.
Mason and Dixon's report, when it was accepted, resolved the long-standing conflict between the two proprietaries, and ended a court battle that had begun in 1682, with the issuance of William Penn's vague royal charter. Because both proprietors could construe their charters to include much of the same territory, both colonies claimed jurisdiction over Sussex County, Delaware, parts of the northern counties of Delaware, and the territory around the present Maryland-Pennsylvania boundary.
The boundary markers survive today in a remarkably good state of preservation. Most of the original stones still are in place; at some points, they are preserved in public parks, but most can be found along hedgerows or in the woods. A very few of them have been mistreated, moved, or defaced. Others have been lost and replaced with newer markers. The historical societies of Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland have each preserved crown-stones in their museums; these removed stones have been replaced with replicas.
Engineering; Politics/government
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1975.
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 Wilmington and Western Railroad, a historic narrow-gauge railroad that operated in the District of Delaware, was used to transport goods and passengers between Wilmington and the nearby towns of Hockessin and Yorklyn. Today, the railroad is primarily used for tourist excursions and special events.
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 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.