The War for Independence came to Lewes’ doorstep in the spring of 1776. In March and April of that year, Delawareans of all sorts were forced to come to terms with their changing world. Loyalties, ideals, and even family bonds were tested; lives and livelihoods were threatened; and independence was on the horizon. Sitting prominently at the mouth of Delaware Bay, Lewes was a lynchpin in the defenses of America’s most vital waterway, just 89 nautical miles from Philadelphia, where whispers of independence were beginning to take hold among the people and their representatives in Continental Congress. The price of liberty too became frighteningly clear when ships of the British Royal Navy appeared on blockade off Cape Henlopen: Lewes was under enemy guns.

In this annual living history event, join Historic Lewes as we explore the “season of independence” in 1776 Lewistown. Visit with reenactors as they recreate the personalities and experiences of everyday people reckoning with extraordinary times: hear the talk around town, see trades and crafts in practice, and get hands-on with history!