National Register Listing

Ivy Dale Farm

a.k.a. Ivy Green;Hoffecker Farm

S of Smyrna off DE 9, Smyrna, DE
Ivy Dale Farm is situated on a tract that was originally a portion of "Pearman's Choice," granted by William Penn to Henry Pearman in 1684. Although Pearman subsequently sold much of the original tract, a portion descended to his daughter, who sold the land to William Cahoon.

In 1748 Cahoon sold his land to John Joy. By 1786 a house was located on the property, for John Joy willed to his sons the land "on which he dwelt." The land was described as "three contiguous pieces of Pearman's Choice, bought by three different claimers." In 1817 the property, known as a "mansion plantation," descended to Edward Joy Morris.

In 1837 Edward Joy Morris sold the Edward Joy farm to Joseph Hoffecker, a descendant of Henry Hoffecker, a German immigrant who
settled near Smyrna. Joseph Hoffecker realized considerable prosperity from the farmlands. Thus, in 1845 he rebuilt the Joy house to suit his improved position.

When Joseph Hoffecker died in 1851, the farm, then called "Ivy Green," was inherited by John H. Hoffecker, a leading entrepreneur in the Smyrna area, known for his fruit-canning business. "Ivy Green" consisted of two hundred twenty-five acres, planted mostly in fruit trees. John H. Hoffecker served as a member of the United States House of Representatives, and as speaker of the Delaware House of Representatives.

In 1877 Walter 0. Hoffecker became manager of his father's farmlands. At the death of John H. Hoffecker in 1900, Walter Hoffecker
gained outright control. Like his father, Walter Hoffecker was prominent in public affairs; he too served as a member of the United States House of Representatives, having filled the vacancy left by the death of his father.

During the first half of the twentieth century, the farm now known as "Ivy Dale", passed out of the hands of the Hoffecker family.
Nevertheless, the house still stands amid the fields of a working farm.
Local significance of the building:
Industry; Politics/government

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

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.

industry politics government
Audiobooks about the history of Delaware.
In the 19th century, the District of Delaware was known for its production of gunpowder, and several gunpowder mills were established in the region. One of the most famous mills was the Hagley Powder Mills, which were founded by the DuPont family in the early 1800s. The mills were a major supplier of gunpowder to the U.S. military during the Civil War.
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.