Plantation Tours
Tours of the plantation utilize a technique known as character interpretation in which trained historic interpreters depict characters from John Dickinson's era.
Character-interpreted tours enable visitors to compare and contrast lifestyles of the wealthy Dickinson family with those of tenants, poor whites, slaves, and free blacks residing in Kent County during the 1700s and early 1800s.
Tours and other interpretive programs take place throughout normal operating hours. However, large groups that are interested in attending a tour must make reservations in advance by e-mailing the site supervisor or calling 302-739-3277.
The following topics are available for group tours:
Politics and Plantation (adults/students; 1 1/2 hours): Reviews the life of John Dickinson and the people (tenants, slaves, contractors, business associates, etc.) with whom he interacted in the Kent County area during the late 1700s.
In the Best Manner (adults/students grades 2-12; 2 hours): Compares and contrasts social differences in ownership of items and stylistic changes in architecture and decorative arts.
A World Apart (adults/students grades 2-12; 2 hours): Synthesizes historical data about slaves and free Blacks residing in Jones Neck.
Then and Now (Students grades K-3; 1 1/2 hours): Compares and contrasts historical information about the lifestyles of the Dickinson family, children, tenants, and slaves.
Dickinson Plantation Profiles (Adults/students grades 4-12; 2 hours): Explains the use of primary and secondary resource materials to interpret the plantation's history.
A Sense of the Past (adults/students grades K-2; 2 hours): Highlights the use of sensory skills to interpret the past.
School group tours complement Delaware's Social Studies Content Standards. A special thematic demonstration (weaving, hearth cooking, blacksmithing, etc.) can be scheduled to complement group tour themes.
Special Events
May
The Dickinson Plantation participates in the Old Dover Days celebration on the first Saturday of every May.
December
Every December the Plantation staff recreates a holiday celebration with the Decorative Dessert Table Display. See more information about this year's display, "Make 'Home Place' Your Place for the Holidays".
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