Delaware is a rising star amongst retirees for many reasons. The most obvious reason is its status as a tax haven for seniors. You’ll pay no sales, inheritance, or estate taxes and minimal property and income taxes in this fine place. But the mild climate and numerous beaches are another draw. You can find a beach home here for much less than in traditional retirement states like Florida. Whatever your reasons are for giving Delaware a go, you might also be interested in some of the wackier facts about this state:
Head of the Class
Delaware was the first state in the Union. Delegates jumped the gun in 1787 and were the first to ratify the new Federal Constitution, signing up at the Golden Fleece Inn in Dover. Because of this, Delaware gets to be positioned first for many important events, such as the new president’s inauguration.
Show Your Allegiance!
Gung-ho Delaware was the first to unfurl the Stars and Stripes. During their only revolutionary battle at Cooch’s Bridge on September 3, 1977, the new 13-star flag was raised.
Down but Not Out
Delaware has the lowest average altitude of all 50 states, only rising a mere 60 feet above sea level.
State Smarty Pants
According to the National Science Foundation, Delaware has more Ph.D. scientists and engineers by population percentage than any other state. These smarty-pants residents also hold more patents per person than any other state.
National Parks? Who Needs ‘Em
Delaware is the only state that does not have a National Park – but it makes up for it with several state parks and one National Wildlife Refuge.
Whip It!
Up until 1952, they were still whipping criminals in Delaware. Delaware and neighbor Maryland were the last two states to give up corporal punishment. The final beating at the whipping post occurred in 1952, but it was not officially struck from the books until 1972.
Love Me Some Hexagon
Ever want to go inside a hexagon-shaped building? The Old Library Museum in New Castle, Delaware, exemplifies the whimsical Victorian style. The hexagonal building was built in 1892, and you can visit the New Castle Historical Society there.
Return To: Wilmington
Why do many companies send you bills and junk mail with return addresses in Wilmington, Delaware? The incorporation laws here are very favorable. Approximately half of the Fortune 500 companies in the U.S. are incorporated in Wilmington.
Circle of Life
Delaware’s boundary with Pennsylvania to the north is very unusual. It’s based on a 12-mile arc drawn with the courthouse in New Castle at the center of the circle. It left a wedge of land between the circle and the straight border of Maryland that was claimed by both Delaware and Pennsylvania. In 1921, the claim was settled in favor of Delaware. This circular border is the only such border in the country.
Methodists – Delaware Natives
Delaware is the birthplace of Methodism. The Methodist Church of America was organized and was formed in 1784 at Barratt’s Chapel in Frederica.
