Dover
Dover is the capital of Delaware.
An inland capital chosen during the Revolutionary War for safety from naval attack.
What makes the capitol special
Completed in 1933, Delaware’s Legislative Hall is unique because it is the only state capitol called a “Hall.” It is designed in the Colonial Revival style using handmade bricks and a sloped roof. Inside, the House and Senate chambers feature beautiful woodwork. Right next door stands the Old State House, built in 1791, which served as the state’s first permanent capitol.
Three places to visit
- Air Mobility Command Museum – Explore massive military cargo planes and historic aircraft inside a real hangar from World War II.
- First State Heritage Park – Walk through Delaware’s historic town green. It connects colonial sites and tells the stories of the “First State.”
- Old State House – Tour Delaware’s beautifully restored original capitol building, which dates back to 1791.
How the city got its name
Dover was named in 1683 after a port city in England. This name showed the connection settlers felt to their homeland even as they were putting down new roots in America.
Why this city became the capital
Dover replaced New Castle as Delaware’s capital in 1777. The city was chosen because it was centrally located and situated inland. Being inland was important because it helped protect the government from British naval attacks during the Revolutionary War.
From Celine Carlson’s 50 State Capitals: A Field Guide by a Girl Who Visited Them All, based on her visits to all 50 state capitals. About the author · Sources and research notes.