Built in commemoration of Delaware’s first European colony, Swanendael, established by the Dutch in 1631, the museum serves as a showcase for the Lewes area’s maritime, military and social history.

 

In 1631, a group of settlers under David Pietersz de Vries landed near this spot to form a whale hunting station and agricultural settlement. The settlers of Swanendael, meaning “Valley of the Swans,” crossed the Atlantic in the Walvis. A report to de Vries confirmed that the settlers had been killed and the buildings destroyed as a result of a cultural misunderstanding between the Dutch and Native people in the area.

 

The museum is open to the public and admission is free. Donations are accepted.

 

Restrooms are not available at the Zwaanendael Museum. Please use the facilities prior to your arrival.