Programs
The Delaware Heritage Commission publishes books about the history and heritage of Delaware. The Commission also follows a mandate from the Delaware General Assembly to reprint important out-of-print Delaware books. Provide grants to individuals and groups studying various aspects of First State history and heritage. The Commission has two grant programs: Purnell Challenge Grants for […]
Read MoreCommission Members
Richard B. Carter, ChairHistorian, Author, Delaware legislative staff member, Chair, Delaware Heritage Commission, Former Chair, Delaware Historic Review Board Sussexdick.carter@delaware.gov Rosario Calvachi-MateykoAttorney, Author, Consultant, Deputy Chair Delaware Hispanic Commission Sussexcharitocw@aol.com E. Michael DiPaoloVice President for Southern Delaware, Delaware Community Foundation, form Executive Director, The Lewes Historical Society Sussexemdipaolo@gmail.com Janice A. DurhamDelaware legislative staff member, Representative […]
Read MoreOutreach
The Heritage Commission staff provides outreach services to individuals and groups. We can speak to your Service Organization, provide a lecture based on one of our books or simply answer phone inquiries regarding aspects of Delaware history. We can help with newsletters, promotional materials and more. Our contact information is listed here. We look forward […]
Read MoreJames T. McKinstry Award
In the early 1970s the nation prepared for its bicentennial with the formation of the American Revolution Bicentennial Commission. James T. McKinstry of Wilmington was one of a small group chosen to develop Delaware’s contribution to the national celebration. From his tireless efforts the Delaware Heritage Commission evolved. He served as its second Chairman from 1977 to 1985. In […]
Read MoreContact Information
Phone: 302-744-5018Email: heritagecommission@delaware.gov Committees Email 250th Anniversary Coordinator – Margaret Hughes coordinates the State’s efforts for the upcoming United States Semiquincentennial in 2026. Publications Committee – Recommends and reviews books to be published by the Delaware Heritage Commission. Commemorations Committee – Represents the Commission at planning sessions of State sponsored events. McKinstry Awards Committee – […]
Read MorePurnell Challenge Grant
The Delaware Heritage Commission will make matching grants available to groups to encourage permanent heritage projects. These projects have in the past consisted of historic markers, posters, videotapes, printed listings of archival holdings, and books. The Commission does not fund programs, parties, hotel accommodations, lunches or transportation since these items are not of a permanent nature. Funds for […]
Read MoreOral History
The Commission has compiled a list of over 1,500 Delawareans who have had their lives chronicled and saved on audio tape as oral history. For a complete list of the histories and how to listen to the tapes or read the transcripts please call the Commission. Our contact information is listed here. The Commission also offers […]
Read MoreGrants
The Delaware Heritage Commission offers two different grants meant for individuals and groups studying the history and heritage of Delaware. Grant applications are accepted at any time. They are then considered by the Purnell Challenge Grant or McKinstry Award Committee. The Committee then makes a recommendation to the Commission at an Executive Committee or Regular Commission meeting. The […]
Read MoreBook Orders
The Commission publishes books under the Delaware Heritage Press. If you would like to purchase a book by phone please call 302-744-5000. Our books are on display in the lobby of the Delaware Public Archives building and are available for purchase with cash, check, or credit card at: Delaware Public Archives Building 121 Martin Luther […]
Read MoreAbout the Heritage Commission
Books, special events, grants, outreach, Delaware Book Fair and Authors Day, oral history, and much more. Call the Delaware Heritage Commission, our contact information is here, or enjoy the information on the web site. The Delaware Heritage Commission is an agency within the Delaware Department of State. Founded in, 1972 the Commission celebrated 30 years […]
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