Old State House | Dover

Information

Landmark: Old State House
City: Dover
Country: USA Delaware
Continent: North America

Old State House, Dover, USA Delaware, North America

The Old State House is a historic government building located in Dover, Delaware. It served as the state capitol building from 1787 to 1933.

Visual Characteristics

The Old State House is a two-story brick structure with a white wooden cupola. The primary construction material is red brick, laid in a Flemish bond pattern. White painted trim accents the windows and roofline. The building measures approximately 80 feet in length and 40 feet in width. Its architectural style is Federal, characterized by its symmetrical design and classical proportions.

Location & Access Logistics

The Old State House is situated at 25 The Green in Dover, Delaware. It is located in the center of the city's historic district, approximately 0.2 miles from the main downtown commercial area. Parking is available in designated public lots surrounding The Green, with metered street parking also present. Several Delaware Transit Corporation (DTC) bus routes serve the downtown Dover area, with stops within a 0.3-mile radius of the building.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Old State House began in 1787 and was completed in 1791. It was designed by architect William Thornton, though the final design was influenced by local builders. The building's original purpose was to house the legislative and executive branches of the Delaware state government. It replaced an earlier courthouse on the same site.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the restored legislative chambers, including the Senate and House of Representatives rooms. The building houses exhibits detailing Delaware's role in early American history. Photography is permitted within the public areas. Guided tours are available on a scheduled basis.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on the first floor. Limited shaded areas are present on The Green surrounding the building. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong in this urban location. Food vendors and restaurants are located within a 0.5-mile radius in the downtown area.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal interior lighting and fewer crowds, visiting during weekday mornings between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM is recommended. The months of April through October offer the most pleasant outdoor conditions for exploring the surrounding historic district.

Facts & Legends

The Old State House is the second-oldest state capitol building in continuous use in the United States. A local anecdote suggests that the ghost of a former legislator can sometimes be heard pacing the upper floors after closing.