Amstel House | New Castle

Information

Landmark: Amstel House
City: New Castle
Country: USA Delaware
Continent: North America

Amstel House, New Castle, USA Delaware, North America

Amstel House is a historic house museum located in New Castle, Delaware. It is one of the oldest surviving structures in the state.

Visual Characteristics

The Amstel House is a two-and-a-half-story brick structure built in the Georgian architectural style. Its exterior features red brickwork with white trim around the windows and doors. The roof is a gambrel style, covered in wood shingles. The house has a symmetrical facade with a central entrance.

Location & Access Logistics

Amstel House is situated at 412 South Street in New Castle, Delaware. It is approximately 6 miles south of Wilmington, Delaware. Parking is available on-street in the vicinity of the house. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus stops are several blocks away on Delaware Street.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Amstel House began around 1730. It was built by Samuel Hollingsworth, a prominent local merchant. The house served as a private residence for several prominent families throughout its history before being acquired and preserved as a museum.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the preserved rooms of the house, which showcase period furnishings and artifacts. Guided tours provide details on the architectural features and the lives of the families who resided there. The grounds include a colonial-style garden.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the museum. Limited shade is provided by mature trees on the property. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in the area. No on-site food vendors are present; dining options are available in the nearby downtown New Castle area.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography of the exterior is mid-morning or late afternoon when the sunlight is less direct. The museum is open year-round, with spring and fall offering pleasant outdoor conditions for exploring the grounds.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is that George Washington is believed to have dined at Amstel House during a visit to New Castle in 1784. The house has also been the subject of local ghost stories, with some visitors reporting unexplained occurrences.