Old State House, Dover

4.5

#7 of 27 in Things to do in Dover

Government Building · Hidden Gem · Tourist Spot

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Old Statehouse is a historic state capitol building located on The Green at Dover, Kent County, Delaware. It was built between 1787 and 1792, and is a two-story, five bay, brick structure in a Middle Georgian style. The front facade features a fanlight over the center door and above it a Palladian window at the center of the second floor. It has a shingled side gabled roof topped with an octagonal cupola. A number of attached wings were added between 1836 and 1926. From 1792 to 1932 it was the sole seat of State government, while from 1792 until 1873 it served also as Kent County Court House.
The state house was remodeled in 1873 to reflect a Victorian style and restored in 1976 to its original appearance. Extensive renovations of the State House also took place in 2007.
It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. It is located in the Dover Green Historic District. It is now part of the Delaware National Historic Park and a museum run by the Delaware Division of Historic and Cultural Affairs. It can be toured Monday–Saturday 9–4:30 and Sundays 1:30–4:30 free of charge.

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Old State House reviews

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117 reviews

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4.5

By harryatkck

This is a small building, but worth a visit. You have to take a tour to see the place. The inside reminds me of the inside of Independence Hall in Philadelphia.

This is a small building, but worth a visit. You have to take a tour to see the place. The inside reminds me of the inside of Independence Hall in Philadelphia. more »
By 990justinw

The original State House goes back to 1791 and has had many uses over the years. In 1976 it was restored back to its original appearance. You don't need a reservation to get a tour, just show up...

The original State House goes back to 1791 and has had many uses over the years. In 1976 it was restored back to its original appearance. You don't need a reservation to get a tour, just show up... more »

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By Shannon Ryan

They did a great job rebuilding this in 1976. The free small tour was informative. I love the stairs and they have pictures of this place after it was remodeled to a Victorian style in 1873.. The court room is on the 1st floor and former state's legislative chambers on the 2nd floor

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By Elise

Stopped in for a tour and was so impressed by the young woman who gave us a tour! The building itself is magnificent, but the enthusiasm and knowledgeability of the tour guide made the experience so incredible. Tours are offered on demand as soon as you walk in, so no need to schedule a time or come in on the hour (however, the walking tour, which is separate from the state house tour, leaves on the hour). Overall I had a great time here and would recommend it to anyone! (No public restrooms in the building, but there is one available nearby at the art museum. Plenty is parking available both in front of the state house itself and on the side streets nearby.)

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