DELAWARE - While small in size, is packed with history, unique distinctions, and surprising facts that go beyond its well-known status as the "First State." From its unusual legal system to its outsized corporate presence and pioneering innovations, Delaware offers a fascinating glimpse into the quirks and accomplishments that make it a truly unique place.
This article delves into some of the most interesting and unusual facts about Delaware, revealing a side of the state that often goes unnoticed.
1. First in the Nation: Ratifying the Constitution:
Delaware's most famous claim to fame is its pivotal role in the founding of the United States. On December 7, 1787, Delaware became the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, earning it the nickname "The First State." This historic event took place at the Golden Fleece Tavern in Dover, the state capital (Source: Delaware Public Archives, National Archives).
2. A Shopper's Paradise: Tax-Free Shopping:
Delaware offers a unique perk for shoppers: It's one of only five states in the U.S. without a sales tax (Source: State tax websites and publications). This makes Delaware a popular destination for bargain hunters and those looking to save on purchases.
3. More Corporations Than People?
Delaware has a remarkably high number of corporate entities. In fact, the state has more registered corporations than residents, a testament to its business-friendly laws and its reputation as a corporate haven (Source: Delaware Division of Corporations, U.S. Census Bureau). This unique characteristic makes Delaware a major player in the world of corporate law and finance.
4. A Unique Court System: The Court of Chancery:
Delaware's legal system features a unique institution. The Delaware Court of Chancery is a specialized court that handles business disputes, particularly those involving corporate law. It's known for its expertise in corporate matters and its lack of juries, with cases decided by judges (chancellors) (Source: Delaware Courts website, legal publications on corporate law). This court's influence extends far beyond Delaware's borders, shaping corporate law nationwide.
5. The Blue Hen: A Fighting Spirit:
Delaware's state bird is no ordinary fowl. The Blue Hen, a breed of chicken known for its fighting prowess, was chosen as the state bird, reflecting the state's spirited history and the fighting reputation of Delaware soldiers during the Revolutionary War (Source: Delaware Code, Title 29, Section 307). The nickname "Blue Hen State" is a nod to this unusual avian emblem.
6. The DuPont Dynasty: A Legacy of Innovation:
The DuPont family and their company, DuPont (now DowDuPont), have had a profound impact on Delaware. For over a century, the DuPont family and their company played a dominant role in Delaware's economy and industrial development, initially in gunpowder production and later in chemical manufacturing (Source: Hagley Museum and Library, histories of DuPont). Their influence extends to philanthropy, with numerous cultural and educational institutions bearing the DuPont name.
7. Swedish Roots: A Colonial Legacy:
Delaware's colonial history predates English rule. The first permanent European settlement in Delaware was New Sweden, established in March 1638 by Swedish and Finnish colonists near present-day Wilmington (Source: Swedish Colonial Society, historical accounts of New Sweden). This often-overlooked chapter in Delaware's history adds to the state's diverse cultural heritage.
8. A Pioneer in Industry: Innovation and Invention:
Delaware has been a site of significant technological innovation:
Delaware was home to Oliver Evans, who invented the automated flour mill in the late 18th century, revolutionizing grain processing (Source: Biographies of Oliver Evans, historical accounts of early American industry). Evans also created the first high pressure steam engine. Shipbuilding was also key.
9. "Liberty and Independence:
" Delaware's motto has been "Liberty and Independence" since 1847.
Delaware, despite its small size, is a state brimming with surprising facts, historical significance, and unique distinctions. From its pioneering role in the nation's founding to its corporate dominance, its unusual legal system, and its contributions to industry and innovation, Delaware offers a fascinating blend of the expected and the unexpected. Exploring these lesser-known aspects of the First State reveals a rich tapestry of history, culture, and ingenuity that makes Delaware far more than just a small state on the map.
