Dover — Uncover the Freedom Ledger

Your journey begins on Dover Green, established in 1717 as the central public square. This site, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972, was a gathering place and market, but also a site for militia musters and public executions in the 18th century. As an archivist, you discover the first proclamations here, calls for independence that still echo across the 2 acres of this historic heart of Dover. The surrounding buildings bear witness to the effervescence of the colonial era and the beginnings of freedom in Delaware.

A short walk away, the Old State House, built in 1792 by Samuel Pennewill, stands proudly. It was here, on December 7, 1787, that Delaware became the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, a pivotal event in Dover's history. This 12,000 sq ft building, restored in 1976, served as the state capitol until 1933 and still features original woodwork and a 50-foot clock tower dating from 1792. Your documents lead you to search for clues hidden within its walls.

Adjacent to the Old State House, the Kent County Courthouse, also erected in 1792, is a neoclassical edifice with Doric columns. This 80 ft long by 50 ft wide building has continuously housed county courts since its construction and was the scene of notable 19th-century trials. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972, it is historically linked to Delaware's legal system post-independence. Your investigation leads you to unravel the threads of justice from that era.

Your path then takes you to the Old Presbyterian Church, built in 1790 by the First Presbyterian Church of Dover. It is the oldest church building in continuous use in Dover, with its congregation founded as early as 1740. Its simple Georgian-style architecture and 90-foot steeple added in 1829 make it a historic landmark. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971, it served as a Union church during the Civil War era, a community gathering place that holds its own secrets for the archivist you are.

Finally, your quest leads you to the John Bell House, a Federal-style mansion constructed circa 1773. This 5,000 sq ft house, located at 191 E. Loockerman St., was the residence of John Bell, a signer of Delaware's ratification of the U.S. Constitution in 1787. Restored in the 20th century, it retains its original fireplaces and period woodwork. Your mission culminates here, connecting all the clues collected across these Delaware monuments to reconstruct the nation's "Freedom Ledger," a memorable experience for all history enthusiasts in Dover.