There are many historic tiny towns in Delaware, from Georgetown to New Castle. You could easily spend an entire weekend strolling their charming downtown areas. One of the most underrated towns in Delaware is just next to Middletown, in the former bustling port of Odessa.
Historic Odessa was founded in 1731 as Cantwell’s Bridge.
Facebook / Historic Odessa Foundation It quickly become an busy shipping town, and gained importance as a port for goods such as wheat, corn, tobacco, and produce that were heading towards the Delaware Bay. When the shipping industry was affected by the railroads coming in to town, Cantwell’s Bridge was renamed Odessa, after a Ukrainian port. The town was hopeful that the name change would bring them luck.
Nowadays, the town is home to about 350 people, and it is one of the most charming destinations in Delaware.
Facebook / Historic Odessa Foundation Every home in the town is on the National Register of Historic Places, and the town is alive with history.
The Historic Odessa Foundation cares for five buildings, and nearly 30 acres of surrounding land, including small outbuildings. Each house has fascinating stories that you’ll hear on a tour.
Facebook / Historic Odessa Foundation The Corbit-Sharp House was built in 1774. One of the legends surrounding the house is about a runaway slave named Sam. In 1845, Sam was hidden in the attic by Mary Corbit herself. When authorities came to search the house, they did not look behind the small attic door, and Sam was able to continue on his journey to freedom in Pennsylvania.
All year long, the historic Odessa foundation hosts events to show off their tiny town.
Facebook / Historic Odessa Foundation In the spring and summer, you’ll find festivals and historic tours. In the fall and winter, you can enjoy touring the town’s historic homes all decked out for the holidays. There are also informational lectures hosted by the foundation. Take a look at the Events Calendar Here.
One reason many people visit Odessa is to dine at Cantwell’s Tavern.
Facebook / Cantwell’s Tavern This 18th century restaurant is a tribute to the original tavern and hotel that stood on this spot. Though it remained closed for years, it reopened as one of New Castle County’s top destination restaurants.
You’ll love to sit down here after a day strolling historic Odessa, and the food will take you back to colonial times.
Facebook / Cantwell’s Tavern Enjoy modern meal in an 18th century building with your close friends or family. You’ll work up an appetite exploring the town.
After just one day in this charming town, you’ll want to explore more of the history of the First State! Plan a getaway to each of the 9 Historic Towns In Delaware That Will Transport You To The Past this year to really appreciate all that Delaware has to offer.
Facebook / Historic Odessa Foundation
It quickly become an busy shipping town, and gained importance as a port for goods such as wheat, corn, tobacco, and produce that were heading towards the Delaware Bay. When the shipping industry was affected by the railroads coming in to town, Cantwell’s Bridge was renamed Odessa, after a Ukrainian port. The town was hopeful that the name change would bring them luck.
Every home in the town is on the National Register of Historic Places, and the town is alive with history.
The Corbit-Sharp House was built in 1774. One of the legends surrounding the house is about a runaway slave named Sam. In 1845, Sam was hidden in the attic by Mary Corbit herself. When authorities came to search the house, they did not look behind the small attic door, and Sam was able to continue on his journey to freedom in Pennsylvania.
In the spring and summer, you’ll find festivals and historic tours. In the fall and winter, you can enjoy touring the town’s historic homes all decked out for the holidays. There are also informational lectures hosted by the foundation. Take a look at the Events Calendar Here.
Facebook / Cantwell’s Tavern
This 18th century restaurant is a tribute to the original tavern and hotel that stood on this spot. Though it remained closed for years, it reopened as one of New Castle County’s top destination restaurants.
Enjoy modern meal in an 18th century building with your close friends or family. You’ll work up an appetite exploring the town.
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