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Quaker Hill and Downtown Historical Buildings, Wilmington

Quaker Hill and Downtown Historical Buildings (Self Guided), Wilmington

For many visitors to Delaware's Wilmington, the downtown district is the main area of interest.

Indeed, the majority of Wilmington's most distinguished attractions are found here. Steeped in history, this part of the city still carries legacy of its first Swedish settlers much as that of the du Pont family who left a great deal of mark on the town's history. Some of the key local landmarks are closely associated with the two, including the Hendrickson House Museum and the Old Swedes Episcopal Church, and the Wilmington Public Library, respectively.

The integral part of Downtown Wilmington is the Quaker Hill neighborhood. Established in the first half of the 18th century, this historic district encompasses over 150 contributing buildings whose historical character and architectural diversity vividly illustrate the heritage of Delaware鈥檚 Wilmington in three dimensions. Notable residential and religious structures here include St. Peter's Cathedral and Wilmington Friends Meeting, to mention but a few.

Spending a day exploring the local highlights can be an easy on-foot adventure if you have self-guiding 911爆料网 mobile app at your disposal. Just grab it and hit the streets of this charming city to enjoy the distinctive culture and history it has to offer like a local!
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Quaker Hill and Downtown Historical Buildings Map

Guide Name: Quaker Hill and Downtown Historical Buildings
Guide Location: USA » Wilmington (See other walking tours in Wilmington)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 10
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Author: Sandra
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
  • Friends Meetinghouse
  • St. Peter's Cathedral
  • Woodward Houses
  • Grace United Methodist Church
  • Wilmington Public Library
  • Grand Opera House
  • Old Town Hall
  • St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church
  • Hendrickson House Museum
  • Holy Trinity Episcopal Church (Old Swedes)
1
Friends Meetinghouse

1) Friends Meetinghouse

The Friends Meetinghouse in Wilmington stands as one of the oldest and most enduring Quaker landmarks in Delaware, located in the historic Quaker Hill neighborhood. Built between 1815 and 1817, this plain yet dignified brick structure has remained a hub of worship for the Wilmington Monthly Meeting, which today counts around 400 members and is affiliated with the Philadelphia Yearly Meeting. It reflects over a century of Quaker presence, beginning with George Fox鈥檚 1672 visit to New Castle and formalized in Wilmington by William and Elizabeth Shipley in 1735.

The current meetinghouse鈥攐pened in 1817 and said to accommodate 700 people鈥攔eplaced earlier structures from 1738 and 1748, reflecting the growth of the local Quaker community. The meeting also fostered educational efforts early on, establishing a school in 1748 that eventually became Wilmington Friends School. Though the school relocated in 1937, its origins on Quaker Hill remain a central part of the meeting鈥檚 legacy.

Adjoining the meetinghouse is a burial ground that holds the graves of several prominent figures, including John Dickinson, famed as the 鈥減enman of the Revolution,鈥 and Thomas Garrett, a leading abolitionist and Quaker who aided Harriet Tubman and helped over 2,700 enslaved individuals escape via the Underground Railroad. Garrett鈥檚 commitment to justice drew some 1,500 mourners to his funeral in 1871, held at the meetinghouse and marked by a eulogy from fellow activist Lucretia Mott.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1976, the Friends Meetinghouse continues to embody the Quaker values of simplicity, peace, and community while standing as a witness to centuries of social change and spiritual continuity in Wilmington.
2
St. Peter's Cathedral

2) St. Peter's Cathedral

Saint Peter's Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral in the Quaker Hill Historic District of Wilmington. The cathedral is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Diocese. It has held this distinction since the early 20th century.

The cathedral was designed by architect Pierre Bauduy in 1818. It was built in the Romanesque Revival architectural style. The church was extended and the bell tower added in 1829.

Much of the interior was added during a large remodeling project that was completed in 1905. The baptistry, altars and frescoes were added at that time. The stained glass, created by Franz Xavier Zettler, was added in 1900.

Saint Peter Cathedral school is located behind the cathedral. It was previously attached to the cathedral. But in 1905, when the apostolic pro-nuncio arrived after the church's remodeling project, he noticed that the church was joined to a rectory and a school. Since a cathedral must be free-standing and debt free, he refused to approve the church as a cathedral. Changes were made over the following years and the church was was eventually designated the cathedral of the diocese.

All visitors are invited to attend mass or schedule a tour of the building. Tours must be planned in advance by contacting the cathedral. Mass takes place Monday through Friday at 12:10 PM, Saturday at 4 PM and Sunday at 9:30 AM.
3
Woodward Houses

3) Woodward Houses

The Woodward Houses, located at 701 and 703 North West Street in Wilmington, are rare surviving examples of 18th-century stone dwellings that showcase Georgian architectural style. The house at 701 was completed around 1745 and features a quarried granite fa莽ade, gable roof, and L-shaped, side-hall floor plan. Its neighbor at 703, finished circa 1760, is three feet shorter in both length and width and constructed from stuccoed stone. Though similar in layout and elevation, 703 underwent mid-19th-century and 1930s interior alterations to accommodate apartments. Local legend adds an extra layer of intrigue, claiming its hearthstone may have once formed part of the platform from which Thomas Jefferson read the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia.

Both homes were likely built by Joseph Woodward, a Quaker ropemaker from West Chester, Pennsylvania, who contributed to Wilmington's shipbuilding industry through the production of rigging ropes for sailing vessels. The Woodward family鈥檚 trade played a key role in supporting the region鈥檚 maritime economy during the colonial period. Later, the properties became associated with the Bayard family, particularly James A. Bayard, a lawyer and U.S. Senator who vocally opposed abolition and supported Southern secession. His political stance and eventual resignation from the Senate over a refusal to swear loyalty to the Union marked his controversial legacy.

Despite successive waves of urban renewal, the Woodward Houses have endured as Wilmington鈥檚 only remaining stone homes from the 1700s with side-hall plans. Their architecture, historical lineage, and preservation reflect both the city's colonial roots and its turbulent national entanglements. In 1979, they were added to the National Register of Historic Places, securing their status as invaluable remnants of early Wilmington history.
4
Grace United Methodist Church

4) Grace United Methodist Church

Grace United Methodist Church, situated at the intersection of 9th and West Streets in Wilmington, stands as a striking example of High Victorian Gothic Revival architecture. Designed by local architect Thomas Dixon and completed in 1868, the church was constructed from green serpentine stone sourced from Chadds Ford, with a base course of brownstone from New Brunswick. Its elaborate fa莽ade features two steeple towers topped with needle spires and Celtic crosses, with the tallest soaring 186 feet above the streetscape. A triple-arch entrance and expansive stained glass windows add to its commanding presence, while the church's dimensions鈥攁pproximately 166 by 102 feet鈥攆urther emphasize its architectural ambition.

Founded in the closing years of the Civil War, Grace Church was born from a vision by members of Saint Paul鈥檚 Methodist Church to establish a mission congregation at Wilmington鈥檚 western edge. The cornerstone was laid in 1865, and the sanctuary was dedicated just three years later, honoring the Union victory at Gettysburg that had spared the city from Confederate threat. At the time, Wilmington was a modest city of 30,000 residents, and Grace Church was built near its pastoral outskirts, reflecting both strategic foresight and civic pride.

The complex once included a two-story annex and a parsonage鈥擝assett Hall鈥攃onstructed in 1870 from the same signature stone. Though Bassett Hall was eventually razed in 1998 and replaced by a community playground, the church itself remains a landmark of spiritual and architectural legacy. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1983, it continues to serve the community while bearing the marks of time鈥攊ts green stonework darkened by decades of coal soot and weathering, a testament to the enduring character of the structure and the city it has shaped.
5
Wilmington Public Library

5) Wilmington Public Library

The Wilmington Public Library was originally incorporated in 1754, attesting to which is a handwritten receipt for dues. However, due to the Revolutionary War and the ensued lack of funds, the library service was temporarily ceased until 1788 when the it was reinstated with the help of John Dickinson, Jacob Broom and Gunning Bedford, the three prominent Delawareans who were the original signers of the U.S. Constitution.

The early Library was located at the residence of the Librarian. As the size of the collections grew, the Library quarters likewise expanded. The Town Hall was its primary site until 1861 when the John Dickinson Mansion at 8th and Market was razed and a new building was constructed to meet the needs of the Library in 1899.

During the early 20th century, when the Library began to once again feel the need for more space, Pierre S. du Pont spearheaded a campaign to provide a larger building and improved services. He donated the property for the current building, chaired the art committee which supervised the architectural development of it and headed the campaign to raise funds for the new building. Mr. du Pont was also instrumental in attracting the support of public funds for the new Library.

The current location of the Wilmington Public Library was dedicated in 1922 and remained physically unchanged until 1970 when the interior was extensively renovated.

The fascinating Library building is a massive white-gray edifice designed in the Neoclassic style by renowned architects Alfred Githens and Edward Tilton. The symmetrical fa莽ade is decorated with prominent Ionic pilasters, garlands, a terra-cotta frieze with Egyptian motifs, and narrow grilled windows.
6
Grand Opera House

6) Grand Opera House (must see)

The Grand Opera House is a four-story theater built in 1871. It was designed by Thomas Dixon in the Second Empire architectural style for the Delaware Grand Lodge of Masons. Originally a theatre and Masonic Temple, the Grand Opera House famously uses Masonic imagery such as the Eye of Providence.

Patrons could see operas, symphonies, vaudeville acts and burlesque theatre through 1930. Warner Brothers ran the Grand Opera House as a movie theatre from 1930 through 1967. Once the movie theatre closed, it reopened to orchestral, opera and ballet performances.

Visitors to Wilmington can view a number of live performances at the Grand Opera House depending on when they are in the city. They can also take part in a group tour by calling ahead and making advanced arrangements. Most will simply enjoy a walking tour that allows them to admire the architecture of the building in a cozy, downtown environment.

The Grand Opera House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
7
Old Town Hall

7) Old Town Hall

Old Town Hall was built in 1798 as the center of the city's government. For almost a century, town meetings, elections and trials were held at the town hall. Likewise, the building was home to a library and jail cells. It held this role until 1916 when it was purchased by the Historical Society of Delaware.

Modeled after Philadelphia鈥檚 Congress Hall, the Old Town Hall is designed in the late-Georgian and early-Federal architectural styles. The brick building has a sloping roof with an octagonal cupola.

It originally held a bronze bell referred to as the Tatnall Bell. It was named after the Wilmington merchant who purchased the bell and the clock for the town hall. The bell was cast in England and worked with the clock to strike on the hour. It could not be rung manually to sound a fire alarm, call citizens to meetings, or perform special celebration or mourning. Today the Tatnall Bell can be found across the street from the Old Town Hall between the Simms House and the Library.

Those who wish to tour the building may take a self-guided tour from noon to 5 PM on Wednesdays through Sundays. These tours need to be scheduled in advance by contacting the historical society. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.
8
St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church

8) St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church

Saint Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church in Wilmington is a significant landmark in the religious and cultural history of the city. Located at the corner of Sixth and Pine Streets, it is the only active church in Delaware founded by Saint John Neumann, who consecrated the building on October 31, 1858, during his tenure as Bishop of Philadelphia. Originally part of the Diocese of Philadelphia, the parish became part of the newly created Diocese of Wilmington in 1868. The church, alongside its parochial school established in 1866, played a vital role in the spiritual life and social integration of thousands of Irish immigrants who settled in the area in the 19th century.

Constructed in brick with limestone trim, the church features a distinctive facade with three towers鈥攖wo diagonal corner towers capped with onion-shaped domes and a central square tower added in 1881, now serving as the belfry. A fire in 1966 destroyed the original wooden dome, which was later replaced. The architecture reflects a blend of ecclesiastical and cultural influences, giving the structure a strong visual identity in the East Side neighborhood it has long served. In 1976, Saint Mary鈥檚 was added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its architectural and historical significance.

Incorporated under its current name in 1894, the church honors the Immaculate Conception and continues to embody the legacy of its founder. Following John Neumann鈥檚 canonization in 1977, a life-sized statue by Wilmington sculptor Charles Parks was commissioned to commemorate the event. Today, Saint Mary鈥檚 remains a small but vibrant parish, racially diverse and deeply rooted in community traditions鈥攁n enduring testament to faith, resilience, and service in one of Wilmington鈥檚 oldest Catholic congregations.
9
Hendrickson House Museum

9) Hendrickson House Museum

Hendrickson House is one of the oldest houses in the state of Delaware and one of the oldest surviving Swedish-American homes in the United States. It forms part of Old Swedes Historic Site, a National Historic Landmark, which includes Holy Trinity Church (Old Swedes) (1698鈥99) and burial ground (1638) with gravestones dating back more than 400 years.

The house was originally built in 1690 in Ridley Township near Chester, Pennsylvania as the home of Swedish farmer Andrew Hendrickson and his wife, Brigitta Morton, both native of the New Sweden colony. Overall, three generations of Hendricksons had lived here. Enlarged in the 1790s, the property consists of one large room on the first floor for all the family's daily activities and a large bedroom on the second floor.

The family sold it in 1788, upon which the house was used for accommodating tenant farmers. A fire in the early 1900s destroyed many wooden parts thereof. Still a fine example of a typical farmhouse, this historic home provides insight into late 17th-century life in America. In 1958 the house was moved to its current location in Wilmington, Delaware, to prevent it from being torn down, where it then underwent a restoration process.

The pine mantel and woodwork around the large fireplace are original, but the floorboards were taken from a Massachusetts farmhouse of the same period. The pine ceiling beams were made by hand as part of the restoration. Existing doors and windows were used as patterns for new ones, and the curved staircase was reconstructed in accordance with marks on the walls. The straight staircase is new; it was added for safety reasons. The house is now used as the church offices and a small museum.
10
Holy Trinity Episcopal Church (Old Swedes)

10) Holy Trinity Episcopal Church (Old Swedes)

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, commonly known as Old Swedes, stands as one of the most enduring symbols of Swedish-American heritage in the United States. Located at East 7th and Church Streets in Wilmington, Delaware, the church was consecrated on Trinity Sunday, June 4, 1699, by a congregation of Swedish settlers who had formerly been part of the New Sweden colony. Built in 1698鈥99 on Fort Christina鈥檚 1638 burial ground, the church is among the oldest surviving Swedish colonial buildings and claims to be the nation鈥檚 oldest church still used as originally built. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1961 and incorporated into the First State National Historical Park in 2013.

Constructed from local blue granite and bricks that once served as ship ballast, Holy Trinity is a rare architectural survivor of the early colonial period. The churchyard holds over 15,000 burials, underscoring its long-standing role in the spiritual and civic life of the area. Services were originally conducted in Swedish well into the 18th century, a reflection of the congregation鈥檚 heritage and the continued pastoral support from the Church of Sweden, which sent missionaries to the Delaware Valley in 1697.

Holy Trinity is one of several "Old Swedes" churches in the region, part of a broader network that includes historic congregations in Philadelphia, Swedesboro, and beyond. Over time, these churches transitioned from their Lutheran origins to become part of the Episcopal Church, with Holy Trinity officially joining the Episcopal Diocese of Delaware in 1791. Today, the parish oversees both the Old Swedes Church and another historic building on North Adams Street, both of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The grounds also house the Hendrickson House, relocated there in 1958 to further preserve the legacy of early Swedish settlement in America.

Walking Tours in Wilmington, Delaware

Create Your Own Walk in Wilmington

Create Your Own Walk in Wilmington

Creating your own self-guided walk in Wilmington is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Wilmington Introduction Walking Tour

Wilmington Introduction Walking Tour

Wilmington is the largest city in Delaware. It lies at the confluence of the Brandywine and Christina Rivers. Wilmington was originally home to the Lenape people. However, the land was purchased from Chief Mattahorn by the Swedish South Company in 1638. They built Fort Christina at the mouth of what would later be called the Christina River.

The Swedish lost control of the Fort Christina...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles