Settled by the Dutch in 1631, Lewes was the first European settlement in what is now the state of Delaware. Later in the same year, the settlement was destroyed in an Indian attack. In the mid-1650’s, the Dutch built a new fort in the area called Zwaanendael, which means “Valley of the Swans.”

Between the time of the first settlement and 1682, the town underwent many name changes, including “Plockhoy,” “The Hoornkill,” “Whorekill,” and “Deale.” Finally, in 1682, William Penn named the establishment Lewes, after his birthplace in Lewes, England. Until 1791, Lewes served as the county seat of Sussex County. Because of demand from residents of western Sussex County for a more centrally-located county government, the county seat was moved to Georgetown in 1791.

Lewes played a role in the War of 1812. In 1813, the British blockaded the Delaware Bay and demanded 20 live bullock and fresh vegetables, threatening to bombard the town. On April 6, 1813, the British opened fire on Lewes, killing no one, though a chicken and a pig were wounded. Few houses were damaged by this bombardment. Two days later, the British left the Cape.

Lewes’ motto is “a town of busy days and quiet nights.” Leave your car and walk through Lewes to experience its rich heritage. A variety of museums and historic homes are available for touring. A good place to begin your walk is the Fisher-Martin House, home to the Lewes Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau’s information center and office. Be sure to visit the Cannonball House Maritime Museum and the Historic Complex. Visit the information center to obtain a walking-tour guide and other literature about Lewes.

The Zwaanendael Museum

The Zwaanendael Museum, at the intersection of Kings Highway and Savannah Road, is run by Delaware State Museums. The museum displays exhibits that convey the rich history of Sussex County. For more information, call the Zwaanendael Museum at (302) 645-1148.

Hours: Tuesday through Saturday -10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday -1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Closed Mondays and state holidays. Public restroom facilities are located behind the Zwaanendael Museum and the Fisher-Martin House.

Fisher-Martin House

Hours: Monday through Friday, year-round -10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. During the summer, the center is also open: Saturday - 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Sunday -10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Call (302) 645-8073 for information.

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