Celebrating the First State on Dec. 7 has been happening since a 1933 resolution was passed, urging “people of the State of Delaware to observe the day in schools, churches and civic organizations with appropriate celebrations.” In 1787, Delaware became the first state to ratify the Constitution, when delegates met at Battell’s Tavern (also known as the Golden Fleece Tavern), thus making it the first state in the new nation. How do you observe the day?
- To be honest, every Delaware Day, I think of my fourth-grade teacher at Silverside Elementary, Mrs. Tomlinson. She loved Delaware history! — Cathy Candeloro Pettee
- There would never be a first state if it weren’t for armed citizens. They also had the same weapons as the army they defeated. — Bob Hice
- As a kid in private school, we had Delaware history. — Howard Gaines III
- Didn’t know this was a thing till today; been here five years. I’ll spend it in a quiet house with good coffee, while the kids are at school. — Matthew Fisher
- I feel it is more important to honor all the heroes that died at Pearl Harbor for our freedom. — Denise Sloboda Deskiewicz
- Not sure if it’s a special day anymore. Is it taught in school? — Ed Luhrman
- Pearl Harbor Day. — Bill McCormick
- Didn’t know it was a thing. — Sharon Hoffman Wright
- Our Founding Fathers would be so disappointed today. — Mark A. Courtney
- Definitely. — Jonathan Contant
