America's first state,
Delaware is nestled along North America's mid-Atlantic seaboard. This exciting
moving destination and second smallest state in the country, Delaware has a land area of 1,954-square-miles. Belying its unassuming size, however, is the important role that the state has played in the history of the U.S. In December of 1787, Delaware became the first of the 13 original states to ratify the U.S. Constitution, earning its nickname, "The First State." Since then, Delaware has occasionally been in the national spotlight, and has played an important role in the nation's political, social, and economic development.
Origin of State's Name: The name "Delaware" originates from the Delaware River and Bay, named in honor of Sir Thomas West (Lord De La Warr), governor of the English colony at Jamestown, Virginia in 1610.
Capital City: Dover is the capital of Delaware and the seat of
Kent County. The city, which dates back to the 1600s, is acclaimed for its lovely tree-lined streets, preserved towns and impressive Georgian and Victorian architecture. Long a hub of government, business and agriculture, Dover has become a tourist Mecca as visitors come to enjoy the city's historical offerings, tax-free shopping, and the excitement of slots, NASCAR racing, and harness racing that takes place at Dover Downs.
Population: As of 2009, Delaware's population was estimated at 784,000.
Driving: Driver's license information, applications, testing requirements, driver's manuals and testing locations can be found on the
Delaware Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website.
Agriculture and Industry: Chemical products, food processing, paper products, rubber and plastic products, scientific instruments, printing and publishing are the state's largest industries. State agriculture includes poultry, nursery stock, soybeans, dairy products and corn
State Bird: Adopted as the official state bird on April 14, 1939, is the Blue Hen Chicken is the state bird of Delaware.
Tree: The state tree, the American holly, is characterized as a small tree, with a thick crown and pyramidal form, usually with branches to the ground.
State Flower: Adopted in 1895, the peach blossom is Delaware's state flower.
State Song: Written by George B. Hynson, "Our Delaware" is Delaware's state song.