National Register Listing

Green Mansion House

Main St., Kenton, DE
The Green Mansion House was built as a town dwelling during the initial development of the town of Kenton. Philip Lewis, in arranging for its construction, had the building erected in a manner very similar to many of the brick farmhouses standing in Kenton Hundred. The original brick block is a one room plan dwelling and now functions as a kitchen wing. The frame block contains the public living space and is arranged in the formal vocabulary of a 3-bay, centerhall-plan dwelling. The combination of the two diverse floor plans has created a unique dwelling in that the nineteenth century use of a one room plan in brick is linked to a more modern and major frame addition. The usual practice in Kenton Hundred is to have the brick section retain its use as the major block and the frame additions serve as a minor wing. This house is therefore eligible under Criterion C as an example of a reversal of the usual building practice and tradition of Kenton Hundred. The house is also eligible under Criterion A for its association with Philip Lewis, the initial developer of Kenton, but more importantly for its association with and used by John Green as his principal residence while he participated in encouraging the growth of the town.
Local significance of the building:
Community Planning And Development; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1983.

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.

community planning and development architecture houses residential buildings
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.