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Lewes Delaware History
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Upon entering the city of Lewes Delaware, one would wish that they could capture all of its charming ambiance, put it in a bottle and keep it forever, opening it up when needed, to recapture the serene feeling it provides. Lewes is a charming, romantic seafaring city located near the infamous Cape Henlopen park, and a short 5 miles from Rehoboth Beach. Though Lewes was discovered by Henry Hudson in 1609, the city was not established until 1631 by Dutch settler's who desired the land to be a trading post. Lewes is now one of the most visited resort cities with tourists traveling from all parts of the country, enraptured by it's tranquil, peaceful and nautical beauty. Located on the Atlantic ocean and Delaware Bay, Lewes is a city rich in history, with its beginning consisting of a community of whalers and fishermen. Lewes' infamous Cape Henlopen, filled with miles of calm, inviting beaches, rustic nature trails and bird sanctuaries, at one time protected the shipping lanes of the Delaware Bay and the river. In World War two, it served as the US Army base Fort Mills.

For the history buff or museum lover, this city could entertain you for days. Downtown has a half square mile that unveils all the enduring history of Delaware's past. The Historic district is filled with museums, Inns, B&B's, restaurants and shops. The Zwaanendael Museum as well as the Cannonball House displays Cape Henlopen's history as well as the remarkable story of the sinking of the H.M.S. DeBraak ship. While strolling down the Ship Carpenter streets, visit 1700 Rabbit Ferry House, and Delaware's oldest house, named after the chief justice of the three lower counties in Delaware, the Ryves Holt House.

Like most seafaring cities, Lewes is famous for it's historic lighthouses. Off of Cape Henlopen, is the Delaware Breakwater east end lighthouse. It was established in 1885 to guide ships safely into the Delaware Bay. The Cape Henlopen lighthouse was established between 1765 to 1767 and upon it's completion, was the seventh lighthouse of the American colonies.

Another special attraction to visit is the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. Established in 1964, the ferry travels 17 miles to the Victorian Cape May in New Jersey where one can enjoy the beautifully restored historic homes, visit the Stone Harbor bird sanctuary or take part in the excitement and thrills of the the casinos in Atlantic city.

Lewes Delaware is known for their quaint downtown shops and variety of mouthwatering eateries. For a fine meal with charm and a Victorian ambiance, The Buttery has a variety of American and International food, and offers veranda dining as well as a scrumptious Sunday brunch. The Lighthouse, which is located on fisherman's wharf, has great food with a nautical atmosphere, specializing in appetizers, seafood, steak and lobster. A wonderful place to rekindle happy memories and create new ones is Irish Eyes pub and restaurant, with its special events, weekly specials, comedy night once a week and outdoor patio dining. If it's a lite bite you want, stop in Robson's coffee shop where the aroma of fresh roasted coffee fills the air along with the smells of fresh baked scones and cakes. Robson's offers an afternoon tea and lunch as well. Truly there is something for everyone in this seafaring city.

Entrancing Lewes is a perfect location for people of all ages, single or married. Not only is Lewes on the water, yet close to all the accommodations of a more extensive city life with it's neighboring cities of Rehoboth and Ocean City, it is close in proximity to Historic Annapolis, Baltimore, Wilmington and Washington DC. So whether one is looking for a place to vacation or to settle down, Lewes offers something special for everyone.

Delaware's extraordinary qualities rate high on most people's wish list. With no state sales tax, no personal property tax, and one of the lowest property tax rates in the nation, it certainly has its advantages to residents. Consider the fact in Delaware, you've got lower housing costs than most of the people in the nation. Clean air and water, great shopping a short drive from any part of the state, beaches, bays and beautiful parks make it the ideal place for your home. Centrally located, Delaware is a short commute away from Philadelphia, PA, Washington, D.C., Baltimore, MD, and other major metropolitan hubs.

Why Sussex County?
Sussex County is one of the fastest growing regions in the nation, with gorgeous beaches, vast forests, state parks, and other attractions minutes away. Come see why this thriving community is the perfect spot for your home or business!