Delaware Heritage Commission |
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Message from the Delaware Heritage Commission
Created in 1972 as the Delaware American Revolution Bicentennial Commission to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the American Revolution in 1776, the Delaware Heritage Commission became one of the principal agencies for the celebration of Delaware history. The celebration of the bicentennial of the U.S. Constitution in 1987, the bicentennial of the Bill of Rights, the 500th anniversary of Columbus "Finding the Americas," the 75th anniversary of the American Revolution Battle of Cooch's Bridge, were led by the Heritage Commission. Our mission is to celebrate the history and heritage of Delaware. Since 1993, the Commission has sponsored Delaware Book Fair and Authors Day. From the publications of books about Delaware history to the institution of two summer history camp programs for boys and girls, we engage in everything to accomplish our goals. The Commission offers Challenge Grants and McKinstry Awards for people studying First State history. The Heritage Commission works with sister agencies within the Delaware Department of State (museums, archives, veterans, arts) to fulfill that mission.
Civil War 150th AnniversaryThe Delaware Heritage Commission has begun planning for the commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War. The theme of the Commission's commemoration is "Ensuring a More Perfect Union.With Liberty and Justice for All". It will focus on life in Delaware during the War, and the contributions of individual Delawareans on both the battlefields and the home front. The Civil War forced the State of Delaware, with its history of both slave ownership and involvement in the Underground Railroad, and thousands of Delawareans to examine their values and loyalties at a time when all efforts at conciliation had failed. After more than four years of controversy, bloodshed, and heartache, the United States emerged as both a stronger nation, and a nation in which "Liberty and Justice for All" was meant for all Americans, though there was still much work to be done. Delawareans - soldiers and civilians alike - played a vital role in every aspect of American life during the War Years, and the Delaware Heritage Commission seeks to ensure that their lives and endeavors are not forgotten. In coming months the Commission will be inviting interested citizens and organizations to join us in planning for this commemoration of a time of such importance to the history of the First State. For more information, contact the Delaware Heritage Commission at (302) 744-5000. |
