People tend to forget about the tiny and flat state of Delaware. "Dela-where?" I thought I would provide Delawareans and those forgetful people with facts about our small state. We may be small, but we're mighty. Delaware has so much history! The following list has known facts, not-so-known facts, and some of the odd laws the state has.
1. First State
On December 7, 1787, Delaware was the First State to ratify the United States Constitution.
2. Steam Railroad
The nation's first scheduled steam railroad started in New Castle county in 1831.
3. Log Cabins
When settlers arrived from Finland, they brought blueprints of log cabins with them. There is one preserved at the Delaware Agricultural Museum, located in Dover.
4. State Bug
The ladybug is Delaware's state bug.
5. Mason-Dixon Line
The Mason-Dixon line divides the town of Delmar. A stone marker was erected in 1768 of the only North-South portion of the Mason-Dixon line.
6. Lord de la Warr
Delaware was named after Lord de la Warr, the first governor of Virginia. He was also nicknamed "Delaware."
7. Delaware Native Americans
The Native Americans that were settled in Delaware were one of the most advanced tribes on the eastern side of the United States
8. One Big Pan
At the Delmarva Chicken Festival in 1950, a giant frying pan was built. It measured 10 feet in diameter and could hold 180 gallons of oil and 800 chicken quarters.
9. Milton
An English poet named John Milton was the inspiration behind the name of this town.
10. Hagley Museum
This museum was originally the du Pont black powder factory, estate, and gardens.
11. No National Park System
Although Delaware has state parks and historical sites, there is no National Park System. Delaware is the only state that does not have national recognition for its seashores, historic sites, parks, etc.
12. John Dickinson
Known for his writings on independence, he was called the "Penman of the Revolution." The Dickinson Plantation and home is preserved in Dover.
13. The Betsy Ross Flag's First Flight
It is suspected that the first time Ross's famous flag flew was at the Battle of Cooch's Bridge. The site is located in Newark.
14. Illegal Pants
In Lewes, it is illegal to wear pants that are "firm fitting" around the waist.
15. Illegal Whispering
In Rehoboth, you are not allowed to whisper in church and 300 feet of a church gathering.
16. I TRIPLE DOG DARE YOU
In Lewes, if you get married because of a dare it is grounds for an annulment.
17. Sleeping on a Bench
You are not allowed to pretend to sleep on a bench on the boardwalk.
18. This Costs an Arm and a Leg
Pawnbrokers are not allowed to accept a wheelchair or prosthetic limbs as payment or pawn.
19. Liquor Store Trips on Sundays
On Sundays, you can only buy alcohol between the hours of 12:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
20. Tailgating
Amended in 1980, it is illegal to tailgate from any vehicle or picnic on any street or highway within the corporate limits of Fenwick Island.
21. Flying Over Water
It is illegal to fly over any water without enough food and water.
