National Register Listing

Golden Mine

W of Milford on DE 443, Milford, DE
Golden Mine is significant, both architecturally and historically. of primary importance is its architectural distinctiveness. There are few middle-class country houses in Delaware which still possess the quality of interior architectural detailing that is found in Golden Mine. Generations of owners have done little to detract from its character. Outstanding features include the double winding staircase and the fully pane led, single-board partition. Exposed structural members are found on both the first and second floors. The parlor has a large open hearth and an elegant butterly cupboard.

Historically, it is uncertain whether Golden Mine was built before or after 1763. Architectural features in the older part of the house indicate that construction might have been before this date. In that case, the house would have been built by a tenant on land owned by an absentee landlord. Therefore, it would provide a rare example of a house built by the landless class which is still in a good state of preservation.

Furthermore, the Golden Mine tract of about 800 acres is typical of the speculative holdings that characterize colonial Delaware. It was owned by members of the Barbadian, London, and Pennsylvania land companies from 1686 until 1763. Such speculation in large parcels had a profound effect on the development of the frontier. In 1763, the Pennsylvania Land Company divided the 500 acres into farms of 140 acres, 325 acres, 165.25 acres, and 126 acres. Since a mill had already been built adjacent to the tract in 1747, it is evident that nearby lands were already being farmed.

Throughout its history, Golden Mine has served as the plantation house for one of the farms carved from the original Golden Mine tract. After the 1763 division of Golden Mine the owner of the property, William Tharp, occupied the house. At sometime before 1780, the house was expanded to its present size.
Thus it can be seen that, despite the divisions of the tract itself and its successive owners through time, the structure has remained a fine example of an architectural style.
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1978.

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
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 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.