New Castle DE
Step back in time and experience the charm and beauty of colonial New Castle. Walk the cobblestone streets and enjoy the historic sites of this riverfront community.
New Castle, originally named Fort Casimir, was founded in 1651 by Peter Stuyvesant, who was sent to provide the Dutch with command of all river traffic. Because of its strategic locations, ownership of the settlement was constantly changing. The flags of the Netherlands, Sweden and Great Britain have all flown over New Castle.
The three counties which make up the state of Delaware were added to William Penn's lands in America. In 1682, Penn came ashore at New Castle and took possession, but these counties, which were well established, became dissatisfied with Penn's rule. In 1704, when he granted them a separate legislature, New Castle became the colonial capitol of Delaware. The lively town also briefly served as the first state capitol, and continued as the county seat until the 1880's.
New Castle's location made it an ideal transfer point for trips up and down the coast. As a result, New Castle was a thriving community throughout the 1700's and early 1800's. The courts and general assembly also attracted various judges, lawyers and government officials who built handsome houses, many of which still remain. The Great Fire of 1824, which started in the stables behind the Jefferson House, claimed many of the inns and warehouses located on The Strand. Among the building destroyed was the modest home of George Read, signer of the Declaration on Independence and the Constitution.
Unlike many historic communities, New Castle is a residential town where people live and work. Each house reflects the individuality of its past and present owners. Because New Castle has been named a National Landmark Historic Area, all renovations and restorations are carefully supervised.
Each home reflects the individuality of its past and present owners. Real estate options consist of well-constructed and beautifully landscaped homes throughout the many tree-lined, cobblestone streets; a distinct feature running throughout this thriving, family-friendly eastern seaport town. Located just south of densely populated Wilmington and within a short driving commute to Philadelphia, New Castle offers residents the perfect blend of culture, history, tourism and recreational amenities both big and small. Parks in New Castle include Buttonwood, Penn Valley, Van Dyke, Bull Hill, Susi, Dobbinsville and the famous Battery Park, home of the town’s widely celebrated Separation Day Event.
Local attractions include visits to the Dutch and Amstel Houses, the Read House and Garden, and the Old New Castle Courthouse. Nearby, the City of Wilmington offers a plethora of recreational and entertainment amenities that enable New Castle residents to experience the benefits found in its small town, picturesque setting as well as the big city indulgences of its neighboring metropolis. Industrial growth in the region has spurred on employment opportunities, while a mainstay of jobs can also be found in Philadelphia, a mere 30 minutes away. New Castle’s coastal location makes it ideal for residents to easily travel so when one seeks the refreshing respite from the pressures of daily life, a trip to the beach, the Brandywine Valley, or any of Delaware’s other treasures is a simple task to accomplish.
A variety of colonial, bungalow, Cape Cod, Victorian and French-inspired homes are available in this historic community. A select few condominiums and townhouses are also available near regional shopping centers and other public areas. Condominiums and townhouses range in price from under $100,000 to the low $300,000s, depending on location and amenities. Two, three and four-bedroom homes range in price from the mid-$100,000s to the low $400,000s and up, and can be found in subdivisions such as Saddlebrook, Holloway Terrace, Hamilton Park, Jefferson Farms and Pleasantville. Larger homes with sprawling yards range in price from the mid-$400,000s to the low $900,000s and more, and are located in subdivisions such as Bayview Manor, Red Lion Chase, Barbs Farms and Northern View. Many historic properties are available as is a select few plots of land for custom building.
