Snowland

DE 42, Leipsic, DE
A tract of land located on Little Duck Creek called "Belle's Endeavor" was owned by Christopher Southey in 1716. Thomas Green sold it in 1774 to William Barnes, who in turn sold it to Daniel Needham.

By 1790 Andrew Naudain had a house on this tract. The house was called "Snowland" for his wife, Rebecca Snow. The Naudains were a large family in Delaware and Maryland. that descended from Elias Naudain, a shipmaster of La Tramblade. Because he was a Huguenot, Naudain fled France in 1682 with his wife and children. Elias Naudain died in England, but his widow and children settled in Delaware and Maryland.

Andrew Naudain sired three sons: Arnold, Andrew, and Elias, all of whom were born at Snowland. Arnold moved to Dover where he studied medicine with Dr. James Sykes. After a career as a major in the War of 1812, he became the Dover postmaster, a state and United States senator, and director of the Farmers Bank. Andrew Naudain also practiced medicine and was twice president of the Delaware Medical Society.

Elias Naudain stayed at Snowland, and, after his father's death in 1819, kept a store in front of the house and a granary nearby. 1830 the property was known as "Naudain's Landing."
Local significance of the building:
Politics/government; Architecture

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.

The District of Delaware has had a number of famous judges throughout its history, including William Julius Haynes, who was the first African American to serve as a federal judge in the state of Delaware.
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 glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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.