Delaware State Parks Celebrating 75 Years

Delaware State Parks kicks off their 75^th year with interesting spring programs. The symbol of the celebration is the tulip poplar, an iconic tree that connects the past, present and future of the parks.

The tulip poplar was established as the anniversary symbol for the parks as Tulip Tree Woods is a rare old-growth forest in Brandywine Creek State Park which was established as one of Delaware’s first nature preserves. Some of the trees in the forest are more than 200 years old.

The Delaware State Park Commission was established by an act of the Delaware General Assembly in 1937 with a defined mission to preserve and protect scenic, historic, scientific, prehistoric and wildlife resources. In addition, the commission was to make these resources available for public use and enjoyment.  The first members of the State Park Commission were appointed by Governor Richard D. McMullen in 1989.

Fort Delaware ownership was transferred from the United States government in 1947. Fort DuPont soon followed, also transferred from the federal government. In 1949, the first appropriation by the General Assembly was authorized at $10,000, the equivalent of $14,852.91 today.

The celebration begins with a presentation at Brandywine Creek on March 25 with a presentation on Brandywine Creek History and Ruins. The hike is two miles and includes several steep hills. The cost is $6 in addition to park fees. To learn more visit Brandywine Creek online.

Cape Henlopen State Park will hold a shoreline cleanup April 2, 16, 30, May 14 and 28. Participants help remove marine debris while learning the importance of coastal stewardship. State parks will provide all supplies, and all participants should wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Learn more or register online.

Another celebration is planned at Brandywine Creek on April 19 with volunteers planting pollinator habitats that provide essential food and shelter for bees and butterflies. This is a great way to celebrate Earth Day and the 75^th anniversary of Delaware State Parks. Registration is encouraged and can be completed by emailing the volunteer manager.

Bellevue State Park will celebrate Earth Day on April 22 with a tree planting event to support long-term environmental resilience while giving volunteers a hands-on opportunity to contribute to the health of Delaware’s natural resources.

First State Heritage Park, which preserves Delaware’s early American history, will hold “Remember and Restore:  Christ Church Cemetery Cleanup” on April 22. Volunteers will work to clean up the historic cemetery, honoring individuals that helped shape Delaware’s past. In addition to hands-on service, volunteers will learn more about the history of the cemetery in alignment with the Delaware 250 commemoration. Learn more and register online.

Fort Delaware has an all-day celebration planned with “Fort Fest,” including the dedication of an historical marker at the location, the start of spring programming and a community 5k run/walk. Learn more by visiting them online.

April ends with a Party for the Planet at the Brandywine Zoo on April 25. This is held in partnership with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums along with other accredited institutions around the country. The day features Earth-Day themed experiences, family-friendly activities and talks by zookeepers. Find full program details online.

More activities are planned beyond April in celebration of the Delaware State Parks 75^th anniversary and can be found at the Delaware State Parks website.