Please visit the Auburn Valley Master Plan site for more information on the project displays, exhibits, and comment form.
Visit the Marshall Steam Museum on Steamin’ Days and learn about steam power and the role of water.
Visit this creek in April to catch freshly stocked trout, or take part in a children’s fishing program.
Enjoy a 1.1-mile hike as you explore the architecture of the local farmhouse and barn found here.
Hike or bike through the natural and cultural history of Yorklyn! Stop at historic overlooks to learn about the textile mills that once stood throughout the region.
This Queen Anne-style home, built in 1897, is a stellar example of Victorian style and decor. It includes many of the Marshall family's original furnishings, and remains today much as it did when three generations of the family lived there.
Check out the former Marshall Brothers Paper Mill for a glimpse of Delaware's industrial past. Be sure to bring your camera!
Nestled along the Red Clay Creek and home to the world’s largest operating collection of Stanley Steamer cars, Auburn Valley State Park highlights Yorklyn’s rich industrial history. The historic Marshall Brothers Paper Mill in its undisturbed condition complements the Queen Anne Mansion and surrounding estate, while transitional forest and remediated wetlands outside the former National Vulcanized Fiber site round out the park. Rare 19th century bridges from across the country are restored and brought to Auburn Valley to help tell the story of the industrial revolution. Outcroppings of Baltimore Gneiss dot the Red Clay Valley around the park, while hidden and historic twin ponds await hikers and anglers at the end of the Oversee Farm Trail. Steamin’ Days offer rides on the 1/8-scale Auburn Valley Railroad and in the park’s antique Stanley Steamer cars.
Nestled in the Piedmont’s Red Clay Valley, visitors to Auburn Valley State Park will discover the history of the Marshall Family, Yorklyn’s rich industrial history, and revitalization of this site. Previously known as Auburn Heights Preserve, Auburn Valley State Park features new hiking and paved biking trails, the historic Marshall Mansion completed in 1897, the Marshall Steam Museum, the Auburn Valley 1/8-scale railroad, and much more.
Special thanks go to Tom and Ruth Marshall for their generous donation of this Auburn Valley estate to Delaware State Parks.
Dating back to 1897, the Marshall mansion tells the story of the family that once called Auburn Valley State Park home. The mansion, with its antique furnishings, is open to the public on select dates and for private tours by appointment. Check the Upcoming Events schedule below for a complete listing of public events.
The Marshall Steam Museum houses the largest collection of operating steam cars in the world. The museum contains historic Stanley Steamers, and gives guests the opportunity to experience life at the dawn of the automotive age first-hand. The museum is open to the public on select dates and for private tours by appointment. Check the Upcoming Events schedule below for a complete listing of public events.
Appreciate the beauty of Auburn Valley State Park by exploring Red Clay Creek. Discover the critical role of water in the industrial development of Yorklyn and the revitalization of the surrounding community.
One of the best ways to experience Auburn Valley State Park is by joining us for Steamin Days. Taking place monthly, park guests have the opportunity to tour the Marshall Mansion and discover what it would have been like to live there. The Marshall Steam Museum opens for tours on these days, and guests may enjoy rides on the miniature trains and steam cars that circle the property.
Tours of Auburn Heights, the Marshall family mansion, and the Marshall Steam Museum are available by appointment for groups of eight or more on non-event days. Tour tickets are $8 per person for either the mansion or museum tour, or $14 for both. Call (302) 729-4280 for information or to schedule a tour. Schedule tours at least one week in advance.
This timeless estate is a unique location for events ranging from weddings and rehearsal dinners to retirement parties and business meetings. Visit our Celebrations and Meetings page for more information.
Saturday, May 18, 2024
1:00 PM
Venga a explorar uno de los mejores ejemplos de mansión victoriana estilo Reina Ana que Delaware tiene para ofrecer con un recorrido de una hora, a las 1pm Y 3pm. Sería en ciertos sábados. Las fechas exactas serán realizadas en la descripción de este evento o en las redes sociales de Auburn Valley State Park. La mansión es la antigua casa de la familia Marshall, cuya historia y legado de industria e innovación llenaron la casa con las antigüedades y muchas historias. Podrás explorar dos pisos de Auburn Heights con un grupo pequeño (máximo 10 personas). $8 por adulto y $5 por niño. El estacionamiento está disponible en Creek Road, frente de la mansión. Se aceptan recorridos sin cita previa. Para registrarse con anticipación, llame al 302-729-4280.
Saturday, May 18, 2024
3:00 PM
Venga a explorar uno de los mejores ejemplos de mansión victoriana estilo Reina Ana que Delaware tiene para ofrecer con un recorrido de una hora, a las 1pm Y 3pm. Sería en ciertos sábados. Las fechas exactas serán realizadas en la descripción de este evento o en las redes sociales de Auburn Valley State Park. La mansión es la antigua casa de la familia Marshall, cuya historia y legado de industria e innovación llenaron la casa con las antigüedades y muchas historias. Podrás explorar dos pisos de Auburn Heights con un grupo pequeño (máximo 10 personas). $8 por adulto y $5 por niño. El estacionamiento está disponible en Creek Road, frente de la mansión. Se aceptan recorridos sin cita previa. Para registrarse con anticipación, llame al 302-729-4280.
Thursday, May 23, 2024
1:00 PM
Come explore one of the best examples of a Queen Anne style Victorian mansion that Delaware has to offer with a one-hour tour, at 1 p.m. every Thursday and Friday. The mansion is the former home of the Marshall family whose history and legacy of industry and innovation filled the home with the antiques and furnishings you will see there today. You will get to explore two floors of Auburn Heights with a small group (maximum 10 people). $8 per adult $4 per child. Tours of the Marshall Steam Museum are available as well with Joint Tour Tickets discounted to $14 for adults and $7 for children. Parking is available in the event lot on Creek Road across from the mansion. Walk-up tours accepted. To register in advance, call 302-729-4280.
Thursday, May 23, 2024
3:00 PM
Come explore one of the best examples of a Queen Anne style Victorian mansion that Delaware has to offer with a one-hour tour, at 3 p.m. every Thursday and Friday. The mansion is the former home of the Marshall family whose history and legacy of industry and innovation filled the home with the antiques and furnishings you will see there today. You will get to explore two floors of Auburn Heights with a small group (maximum 10 people). $8 per adult $4 per child. Tours of the Marshall Steam Museum are available as well with Joint Tour Tickets discounted to $14 for adults and $7 for children. Parking is available in the event lot on Creek Road across from the mansion. Walk-up tours accepted. To register in advance, call 302-729-4280.
Friday, May 24, 2024
1:00 PM
Come explore one of the best examples of a Queen Anne style Victorian mansion that Delaware has to offer with a one-hour tour, at 1 p.m. every Thursday and Friday. The mansion is the former home of the Marshall family whose history and legacy of industry and innovation filled the home with the antiques and furnishings you will see there today. You will get to explore two floors of Auburn Heights with a small group (maximum 10 people). $8 per adult $4 per child. Tours of the Marshall Steam Museum are available as well with Joint Tour Tickets discounted to $14 for adults and $7 for children. Parking is available in the event lot on Creek Road across from the mansion. Walk-up tours accepted. To register in advance, call 302-729-4280.
Friday, May 24, 2024
3:00 PM
Come explore one of the best examples of a Queen Anne style Victorian mansion that Delaware has to offer with a one-hour tour, at 3 p.m. every Thursday and Friday. The mansion is the former home of the Marshall family whose history and legacy of industry and innovation filled the home with the antiques and furnishings you will see there today. You will get to explore two floors of Auburn Heights with a small group (maximum 10 people). $8 per adult $4 per child. Tours of the Marshall Steam Museum are available as well with Joint Tour Tickets discounted to $14 for adults and $7 for children. Parking is available in the event lot on Creek Road across from the mansion. Walk-up tours accepted. To register in advance, call 302-729-4280.
Saturday, May 25, 2024
1:00 PM
Join us for an exclusive look inside the historic paper mill located on Benge Road. This industrial site made paper from 1890 to the 2000s and is in a rare undisturbed condition. This is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to photograph a rustic industrial site and see the state of the Marshall Bros. Mill before it's rehabilitated into a museum space! Must be 14 years or older. Call the park office to register at 302-729-4280. $10 per person
Saturday, May 25, 2024
3:00 PM
Join us for an exclusive look inside the historic paper mill located on Benge Road. This industrial site made paper from 1890 to the 2000s and is in a rare undisturbed condition. This is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to photograph a rustic industrial site and see the state of the Marshall Bros. Mill before it's rehabilitated into a museum space! Must be 14 years or older. Call the park office to register at 302-729-4280. $10 per person
Thursday, May 30, 2024
1:00 PM
Come explore one of the best examples of a Queen Anne style Victorian mansion that Delaware has to offer with a one-hour tour, at 1 p.m. every Thursday and Friday. The mansion is the former home of the Marshall family whose history and legacy of industry and innovation filled the home with the antiques and furnishings you will see there today. You will get to explore two floors of Auburn Heights with a small group (maximum 10 people). $8 per adult $4 per child. Tours of the Marshall Steam Museum are available as well with Joint Tour Tickets discounted to $14 for adults and $7 for children. Parking is available in the event lot on Creek Road across from the mansion. Walk-up tours accepted. To register in advance, call 302-729-4280.
Thursday, May 30, 2024
3:00 PM
Come explore one of the best examples of a Queen Anne style Victorian mansion that Delaware has to offer with a one-hour tour, at 3 p.m. every Thursday and Friday. The mansion is the former home of the Marshall family whose history and legacy of industry and innovation filled the home with the antiques and furnishings you will see there today. You will get to explore two floors of Auburn Heights with a small group (maximum 10 people). $8 per adult $4 per child. Tours of the Marshall Steam Museum are available as well with Joint Tour Tickets discounted to $14 for adults and $7 for children. Parking is available in the event lot on Creek Road across from the mansion. Walk-up tours accepted. To register in advance, call 302-729-4280.
Friday, May 31, 2024
1:00 PM
Come explore one of the best examples of a Queen Anne style Victorian mansion that Delaware has to offer with a one-hour tour, at 1 p.m. every Thursday and Friday. The mansion is the former home of the Marshall family whose history and legacy of industry and innovation filled the home with the antiques and furnishings you will see there today. You will get to explore two floors of Auburn Heights with a small group (maximum 10 people). $8 per adult $4 per child. Tours of the Marshall Steam Museum are available as well with Joint Tour Tickets discounted to $14 for adults and $7 for children. Parking is available in the event lot on Creek Road across from the mansion. Walk-up tours accepted. To register in advance, call 302-729-4280.
Friday, May 31, 2024
3:00 PM
Come explore one of the best examples of a Queen Anne style Victorian mansion that Delaware has to offer with a one-hour tour, at 3 p.m. every Thursday and Friday. The mansion is the former home of the Marshall family whose history and legacy of industry and innovation filled the home with the antiques and furnishings you will see there today. You will get to explore two floors of Auburn Heights with a small group (maximum 10 people). $8 per adult $4 per child. Tours of the Marshall Steam Museum are available as well with Joint Tour Tickets discounted to $14 for adults and $7 for children. Parking is available in the event lot on Creek Road across from the mansion. Walk-up tours accepted. To register in advance, call 302-729-4280.
Sunday, June 2, 2024
12:30 PM
The best way to experience Auburn Heights and the Marshall Steam Museum is to attend a monthly Steamin’ Day! Climb into an antique automobile, board one of our trains, and experience what it was like to travel at the turn of the 20th century. Tour the magnificent 1897 mansion that was home to three generations of the Marshall family. You’ll find something for everyone, ages 2 to 92! No registration required. Free!
Wednesday, June 19, 2024
2:00 PM
On select Fridays, join interns, visiting scholars and local history experts as they highlight never before seen images and objects from the park's collection and share their local knowledge during a parlor side chat. This free one-hour program will take place in the Marshall Mansion, and attendees are welcome to take a tour of the mansion afterward. Check our Facebook page to learn more about each event's topics and themes! No registration required. Free!
Saturday, June 22, 2024
1:00 PM
Join us for an exclusive look inside the historic paper mill located on Benge Road. This industrial site made paper from 1890 to the 2000s and is in a rare undisturbed condition. This is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to photograph a rustic industrial site and see the state of the Marshall Bros. Mill before it's rehabilitated into a museum space! Must be 14 years or older. Call the park office to register at 302-729-4280. $10 per person
Saturday, June 22, 2024
3:00 PM
Join us for an exclusive look inside the historic paper mill located on Benge Road. This industrial site made paper from 1890 to the 2000s and is in a rare undisturbed condition. This is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to photograph a rustic industrial site and see the state of the Marshall Bros. Mill before it's rehabilitated into a museum space! Must be 14 years or older. Call the park office to register at 302-729-4280. $10 per person
Wednesday, June 26, 2024
11:00 AM
Did you know that most of the trees in Yorklyn are younger than 125 years old? The landscape has largely been shaped by those who have lived on and worked the land. Learn about the trees of Yorklyn at the Auburn Heights Estate in this cool walk under the leaves. Meet in front of the mansion at 3000 Creek Road to hike around the scenic estate. No registration required. Free!
Saturday, June 29, 2024
6:00 PM
Auburn Valley State Park welcomes Opera Delaware for a free outdoor music experience on the mansion grounds. The one-hour performance includes period pieces from the time of Auburn Heights' construction and more! Bring your own chairs or picnic blankets and enjoy live music as the air cools. In the spirit of the Marshall family's support of the arts, local theatre troupes and arts venues will be tabling at the event to highlight upcoming programs and events. The estate will open at 5 p.m., and the first floor of the mansion will be open 30 minutes before the performance. A food truck will be on site, so swing by early to grab your picnic dinner. No registration required. This program is supported, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. The Division promotes Delaware arts events on www.DelawareScene.com. Free!
Sunday, July 7, 2024
12:30 PM
The best way to experience Auburn Heights and the Marshall Steam Museum is to attend a monthly Steamin’ Day! Climb into an antique automobile, board one of our trains, and experience what it was like to travel at the turn of the 20th century. Tour the magnificent 1897 mansion that was home to three generations of the Marshall family. You’ll find something for everyone, ages 2 to 92! No registration required. Free!
Tuesday, July 9, 2024
2:00 PM
On select Fridays, join interns, visiting scholars and local history experts as they highlight never before seen images and objects from the park's collection and share their local knowledge during a parlor side chat. This free one-hour program will take place in the Marshall Mansion, and attendees are welcome to take a tour of the mansion afterward. Check our Facebook page to learn more about each event's topics and themes! No registration required. Free!
Wednesday, July 10, 2024
2:00 PM
Join park interpreters in this outdoor experience for families. Visitors will get their toes wet as they wade into the Red Clay Creek using dip nets and buckets to find and identify wildlife. Expect to get wet; wear clothes you don’t mind getting soaked in and pack a fresh pair of dry socks and shoes for after the wading portion. Please bring water shoes or an old pair of sneakers for wading in the creek (fishing hooks and other items may be in the water). Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. Register by calling 302-729-4280. Free!
Tuesday, July 16, 2024
7:00 PM
Discuss Victorian and Edwardian literature, life, culture and conflict while sipping on tea in the gorgeous Marshall Mansion, built in 1897. In addition to classic works by the Bronte's, Stevenson, Dickens, Poe and others we will read selections and poetry from rare and out of print books of local or specific interest including books by Delaware and Pennsylvania natives. This is the perfect opportunity to meet new people and get involved in your local history lovers community! The book club meets on a Tuesday evening bi-monthly. For more information and to register, call 302-729-4280. Free!
Saturday, July 27, 2024
1:00 PM
Join us for an exclusive look inside the historic paper mill located on Benge Road. This industrial site made paper from 1890 to the 2000s and is in a rare undisturbed condition. This is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to photograph a rustic industrial site and see the state of the Marshall Bros. Mill before it's rehabilitated into a museum space! Must be 14 years or older. Call the park office to register at 302-729-4280. $10 per person
Saturday, July 27, 2024
3:00 PM
Join us for an exclusive look inside the historic paper mill located on Benge Road. This industrial site made paper from 1890 to the 2000s and is in a rare undisturbed condition. This is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to photograph a rustic industrial site and see the state of the Marshall Bros. Mill before it's rehabilitated into a museum space! Must be 14 years or older. Call the park office to register at 302-729-4280. $10 per person
Sunday, August 4, 2024
12:30 PM
The best way to experience Auburn Heights and the Marshall Steam Museum is to attend a monthly Steamin’ Day! Climb into an antique automobile, board one of our trains, and experience what it was like to travel at the turn of the 20th century. Tour the magnificent 1897 mansion that was home to three generations of the Marshall family. You’ll find something for everyone, ages 2 to 92! No registration required. Free!
Wednesday, August 7, 2024
2:00 PM
Join park interpreters in this outdoor experience for families. Visitors will get their toes wet as they wade into the Red Clay Creek using dip nets and buckets to find and identify wildlife. Expect to get wet; wear clothes you don’t mind getting soaked in and pack a fresh pair of dry socks and shoes for after the wading portion. Please bring water shoes or an old pair of sneakers for wading in the creek (fishing hooks and other items may be in the water). Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. Register by calling 302-729-4280. Free!
Friday, August 16, 2024
2:00 PM
On select Fridays, join interns, visiting scholars and local history experts as they highlight never before seen images and objects from the park's collection and share their local knowledge during a parlor side chat. This free one-hour program will take place in the Marshall Mansion, and attendees are welcome to take a tour of the mansion afterward. Check our Facebook page to learn more about each event's topics and themes! No registration required. Free!
Saturday, August 24, 2024
1:00 PM
Join us for an exclusive look inside the historic paper mill located on Benge Road. This industrial site made paper from 1890 to the 2000s and is in a rare undisturbed condition. This is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to photograph a rustic industrial site and see the state of the Marshall Bros. Mill before it's rehabilitated into a museum space! Must be 14 years or older. Call the park office to register at 302-729-4280. $10 per person
Saturday, August 24, 2024
3:00 PM
Join us for an exclusive look inside the historic paper mill located on Benge Road. This industrial site made paper from 1890 to the 2000s and is in a rare undisturbed condition. This is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to photograph a rustic industrial site and see the state of the Marshall Bros. Mill before it's rehabilitated into a museum space! Must be 14 years or older. Call the park office to register at 302-729-4280. $10 per person
Saturday, September 21, 2024
8:00 AM
Embark on a journey through Delaware’s hidden gem, the Red Clay Scenic Valley Byway. Unlike any other, this picturesque route weaves through 28 enchanting secondary roads, each offering a glimpse into the heart of the Red Clay Valley. Every turn reveals a commitment to conserving the beauty and vitality of the region’s natural and historic treasures. Mark your calendar and join us for a day of discovery and delight. Red Clay Day is not just an event, it’s a celebration of unity and environmental stewardship. Together, we’ll spotlight the charm of our partner sites' historic features and natural resources through engaging programs and events. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to witness the wonders of the Red Clay Scenic Valley Byway! Make a day of it and visit all the sites for a special prize. No registration required. Free!
Saturday, September 21, 2024
12:30 PM
The annual Auburn Heights Invitational features exceptional motor cars from the dawn of the automotive age through 1969. The event benefits the Joseph Boxler Education Fund, which supports educational programming by the Marshall Steam Museum, and is held rain or shine. In addition to historic autos, enjoy delicious food from On the Roll Food Truck, wine from Total Wine & More, craft beer from Dew Point Brewing Co., Woodside Farm Creamery Ice Cream, rides on the Auburn Valley Railroad and tours of the Auburn Heights Mansion, plus special exhibits and presentations, a silent auction, and more! No registration required. Free!