Jane and Littleton Mitchell Center for African American Heritage

Celebrate Delaware: One State, Many Stories
Experience the history of the First State from new perspectives! Our brand-new exhibitions, “Discover Delaware” and “Journey to Freedom,” introduce visitors to different ways of seeing our home.
In the Delaware History Museum, visitors to “Discover Delaware” can explore six themes: Creating an Identity, Bounty of the Land, Coastal Delaware, Urban Industry, Delaware and a Changing Nation, and Famously Delaware. Learn how the First State’s experiences with immigration, agriculture, geography, industry, politics and our unique culture shape our past, present and future.

In the Mitchell Center, “Journey to Freedom” presents the story of African Americans’ struggle for human rights and dignity in Delaware and in the nation as a whole. Two thematic sections, “Slavery in Delaware and the Struggle for Freedom” and “Beyond Bondage—Breaking Down Barriers,” introduce key Delaware figures and experiences from the colonial period through the twentieth century. From the founding of the African Methodist churches to the Brown v. Board of Education decision and beyond, African Americans in Delaware have made their mark both on their local communities and in the national experience as creative artists, dedicated teachers, and inspiring leaders.

These stories come together at the “breakthrough” wall, which features four selected objects from the DHS collections and shows how these things can be appreciated and understood from multiple points of view. Each visitor has their own story of Delaware; we invite you to share yours with us.

Watch for information regarding upcoming programs for families, adults and school groups!