National Register Listing

McColley, James, House

414 NW Front St., Milford, DE
The McColley House's architectural significance in illustrating the adaptability of Georgian forms to later styles, and for its association with people who were actively involved in Milford's development and who, in the case of James McColley, were of sufficient national reputation to be awarded high government office.

This property is an excellent example of both early building patterns in Milford and later styles and forms that became popular during the course of the nineteenth century. The original plan for the house was that of a two-thirds Georgian, single-pile plan. Enlargement followed fairly quickly with the conversion of the house to a full Georgian plan. The house was further updated fairly shortly to a Gothic Revival form with its cross gable and applied moldings.

The first owner and builder, Henry Paine, was a cooper by trade. This craft was indispensable to Milford's milling industry, and barrels were also an important export item. The location of the house expresses this early association with the industry, in that it is near the site of Milford's first mills.

Upon Henry Paine's death in 1830, James H. McColley purchased the house. McColley was the son of T. P. McColley, an early Methodist preacher in lower Delaware, and one of the largest landowners in Milford. James H. McColley was married to Elizabeth Bell Dutton. They had numerous real estate buildings in Delaware. Mrs. McColley owned the Milford Mills, then called the Haven Mills.

McColley entered government service and was appointed U. S. Consul at Callao, Peru. He died of yellow fever there. His wife continued to occupy the house and remained active in business affairs. However, in 1890, she lost the house and other property as a result of bad debts.
Local significance of the building:
Community Planning And Development; Politics/government; 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 politics government architecture houses residential buildings
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 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.