Lewes, DE Tourist Attractions
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For bathers there is the somewhat overcrowded Rehoboth Beach at Lewes or the quieter beaches to the south. Lewes itself is a pretty little town, founded by Dutch settlers from Hoorn in 1631 - the Zwaanendael Museum (local history) looks very much like the town hall of Hoorn.Pilots who guide ships up Delaware Bay have traditionally made Lewes their home. It is also the site of the Marine College of the University of Delaware.
Zwaanendael Museum
The Zwaanendael Museum presents the history of Sussex County, particularly as it relates to the Delaware's southeastern coast. "Lewes: The First Town in the First State" is presented on the first floor of the museum which was re-opened in 2006. On the second floor is the "Rediscovery through Recovery: Roosevelt Inlet Shipwreck Site" which deals with maritime archaeology.
Cannonball House
Cannonball House was built in 1765 and served as the home of Gilbert McCracken and David Rowland, pilots for the Bay & River Delaware. Cannonball House has remained on the same site since it was built and is featured in may pieces of artwork relating to Delaware. The name comes from the fact that it has a cannonball stuck in the side of the house from the War of 1812.The house has displays of maritime art and memorabilia, including the Fresnel Lens of Fourteen Foot Bank Light.
Lewes Historical Society Complex
The Lewes Historical Society Complex consists of nine restored homes and buildings. The collection includes the Thompson Country Store - a furnished 19th C store, Plank House - a one-room cabin built before 1700, the 1798 Burton-Ingram House - furnished with Chippendale and Empire antiques, the 1740 Hirem Burton House and an 1850 doctor's office.
Fisher-Martin House
Fisher-Martin House, c 1730, is home to the Lewes Chamber of Commerce Information Center. Historical exhibits are on display and an herb garden is on the grounds. The house was moved from Coolspring in 1980 to commemorate the town's 350th anniversary.
Fisherman's Wharf
The Wharf offers narrated cruises of the harbor of Lewes and the Delaware breakwater area. Dolphin and whalewatching cruises as well as fishing trips on the deep-sea vessels are offered.
Overfalls Maritime Museum
The Overfalls Maritime Museum is a steel lightship built in 1938 that served for the Coast Guard until 1971. The Lightship Overfalls has been restored and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge
Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge was preserved as wintering and breeding habitat for migratory waterfowl. Prime Hook was named in the 17th C for the abundance of purple beach plums. The refuge was once home to farms and homes.
Seaside Nature Center
Seaside Nature Center is located in Cape Henlopen State Park. Marine aquariums and displays allow visitors to meet ocean creatures. Environmental education programs and recreational activities are offered year-round.
