National Register Listing

Bethel Historic District

a.k.a. Lewisville, Lewis' Wharf

0.4 mi. W of Laurel, Bethel, DE
Local significance of the district:
Industry; Commerce; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

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 commerce architecture
Audiobooks about the history of Delaware.
The district is also home to several important educational institutions, including the University of Delaware, which was founded in 1743 as a small private academy. Today, the university is a major research institution with over 23,000 students.
Delaware random facts
Sussex County, Delaware, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was first inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Nanticoke and Lenape, who relied on the region's natural resources for survival. The arrival of European settlers in the 17th century marked a significant turning point in the county's history.

In 1631, the first European settlement was established by Dutch traders near present-day Lewes. However, conflicts with the Native Americans and British takeover led to the abandonment of the settlement. In the late 17th century, English settlers and Quakers started resettling the area, and Sussex County was officially established in 1683.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Sussex County played a vital role in agriculture, especially as a major producer of wheat and corn. The county's economy thrived with the growth of small towns, such as Georgetown and Seaford. During the American Revolution, Sussex County saw its share of battles, including the Battle of Cooch's Bridge in 1777.

In the 20th century, Sussex County experienced significant changes due to the growth of industry and tourism. The construction of major highways, such as Route 1 and the creation of beach resorts like Rehoboth Beach, transformed the county into a popular destination for vacationers. Agriculture remained an essential part of Sussex County's economy, with a shift towards poultry farming.

Today, Sussex County continues to evolve and grow, balancing its agricultural roots with the demands of a modern economy. The preservation of historical sites and the appreciation for its diverse heritage serve as a reminder of the county's vibrant past and a source of pride for its residents.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Sussex County, Delaware.

  • 1642 - The area that is now Sussex County was first settled by the Dutch and Swedish colonists.
  • 1670 - English settlers arrived and established their presence in the region.
  • 1682 - Sussex County became part of the newly formed Pennsylvania colony.
  • 1704 - Sussex County officially became part of the newly established Delaware colony.
  • 1755 - The county seat was moved from Lewes to Georgetown.
  • 1775 - The American Revolution began, and Sussex County played a significant role in the fight for independence.
  • 1805 - Construction of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal began, enhancing trade and transportation in the region.
  • 1822 - The Nanticoke Indian Reservation, located in Sussex County, was officially established.
  • 1855 - The Delaware Railroad reached Sussex County, further improving transportation and trade.
  • 1871 - The Boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach was built, marking the beginning of the area's popularity as a beach resort.
  • 1929 - The Great Depression impacted Sussex County, causing economic hardship for many residents.
  • 1950s - The poultry industry became a dominant economic sector in Sussex County.
  • 1991 - The Indian River Inlet Bridge opened, providing improved access to the coastal areas of Sussex County.