New Castle, Delaware was founded in 1651 by the Dutch, taken over by the Swedes and finally Great Britain. Incorporated into the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania by William Penn, as one of its six counties, it was a major port along the Delaware River

Today the State House has been restored, having served as a gymnasium, restaurant and other sundry uses. Some notable judicial proceedings happened in this courthouse. Around 1800 Chief Justice of the Federal Supreme Court Samuel Chase presided over a grand jury hearing judging the seditious articles written by a local newspaper. The grand jury could find nothing. But Chase badgered them and held them in contempt until they accused the newspaper editor of sedition. For this star quality behavior and other equally outrageous acts while conducting juris prudence, Chase joins the distinguished company of Andrew Johnson and William Clinton as receiving the accolades of the articles of impeachment. Like Clinton and Johnson, he did not leave office.

Another landmark case featured the most revered Supreme Court Justice Taney, who also handed down the Dred Scott decision. This regarded an operator of the Underground Railroad, who was subsequently found guilty and fined a great deal of money: another nail into the coffin for the Civil War.

The final case held in the Courthouse was one of the most notorious, Delaware vs. Neal. In 1880 a black man was charged in raping a white woman; a capital offense. His lawyer, losing the case in New Castle Court, petitioned the Federal Government to hear the case based on the exclusion of blacks in the jury selection. Even though blacks comprised seventeen percent of Delaware’s population, none ever served on grand or petit jury. The Supreme Court declared a mistrial, and the new one took place at the new courthouse in Wilmington where he was acquitted. Interestingly enough, the jury in that second trial was also all white, but it was the beginning of adding African-Americans to the jury selection process. William Penn was very foresighted in that even in the 1600′s disputes between Native Americans were to be settled by a jury composed equally of Indians and whites.

Today New Castle is a quiet town with cobblestone and brick streets and sidewalks. The town still captures the spirit of Colonial days and the early nation with its row houses, the Green, town market and the square in front of the Courthouse and city hall.

Tags : Delaware Business, Delaware New, Delaware Travel

The Delaware Theater Company fits approximately four-hundred individuals every night and is the biggest regional theater within its territory. It is located on 200 Water Street in Wilmington, Delaware.

It is a well maintained structure, always in top notch condition. It is consistently clean, open, and inviting. Many wonderful and friendly people work very hard to run this company, and ensure you have a great time.

Even though you’re going there just to see a performance, it’s really the experience that matters – and the staff knows that. They help you find your seats, and offer any and all assistance they can provide if you require it.

The Delaware Theater Company has quite a large array of different and entertaining shows. They provide many different options when purchasing ticket packages, and with so much flexibility, you’re guaranteed to have a good time.

Fire on the Bayou is currently being performed at the theater. It focuses on New Orleans, and what happened during and after Hurricane Katrina.

Harry’s Seafood Grill is a fantastic option if you should find yourself hungry before or after the show. It’s only about a two minute walk away from the theater, and well-worth it. If you want to, you can even purchase a sandwich, snack, or beverage from the theater during an intermission.

At the Delaware Theater Company, there is something for everyone, and you’re guaranteed to have a fun night out. If you live in Wilmington, or near it, and are looking for a fun activity to enjoy – check this hot spot out.

Tags : Delaware Art, Delaware Business, Delaware Travel