Little Creek Methodist Church
Main St., Little Creek, DEThe Little Creek Methodist Episcopal Church is significant to the architectural history of Delaware as an outstanding example of Gothic Revival ecclesiastical architecture. Erected in 1883, at the cost of $3,500.00, this church was dedicated in 1884 after a year of occupation and is the third in a succession of Methodist churches in the immediate vicinity. Prior to the construction of this church, services were held in the Gum Swamp Methodist Episcopal Church, built in 1820, and originally sited approximately one-half mile north of town. It also functioned as a public school by 1832. In February of 1875, the building was moved into Little Creek and placed on the site of the present church. In 1878, it was again moved; this time to Bell Street in Little Creek, where it was converted into a private residence that exists today.
Architecturally, the church is notable for its bold expression of the Gothic idiom of style. There is an aspiration to style the decorative elements of this church which are typical of the folk architectural expression of the residential structures in the town. Elements of style in this church include the Gothic, stained glass windows and fanlights, the decorative engaged buttresses, the doors with recessed panels, and the simple, but elegant, bell tower. The aspiration to style extends to the decorative brackets and Gothic cutouts supporting the shed roof over the stoop on the side wing, the decorative Victorian latticework around the openings of the dome, and the tapered, pyramidical roof over the cupola. In essence, the small decorative features of the Gothic idiom of architectural style make a public statement about the relative wealth of the congregation and the vernacular perception of what a proper folk church, contemporary to the period, should look like.
Local significance of the building:
Architecturally, the church is notable for its bold expression of the Gothic idiom of style. There is an aspiration to style the decorative elements of this church which are typical of the folk architectural expression of the residential structures in the town. Elements of style in this church include the Gothic, stained glass windows and fanlights, the decorative engaged buttresses, the doors with recessed panels, and the simple, but elegant, bell tower. The aspiration to style extends to the decorative brackets and Gothic cutouts supporting the shed roof over the stoop on the side wing, the decorative Victorian latticework around the openings of the dome, and the tapered, pyramidical roof over the cupola. In essence, the small decorative features of the Gothic idiom of architectural style make a public statement about the relative wealth of the congregation and the vernacular perception of what a proper folk church, contemporary to the period, should look like.
Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
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 District of Delaware has a long history of agriculture, particularly in the southern part of the state. The region is known for its production of fruits and vegetables, including strawberries, peaches, and sweet corn.
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 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.