Halloween-related programs set at Zwaanendael Oct. 21, 28
The Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes will present two Halloween-related programs in October.
A theatrical murder mystery, "Who Did In the Delaware Ducks?" will be presented at 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 21, outside the museum grounds or, in case of inclement weather, inside on the museum's second floor (entry via staircase; no elevator). Created by Zwaanendael Museum staff, the play is based on an actual case that was recorded in "Court Records of Sussex County, 1677–1710." In that case, from June 1687, Arthur Starr, a resident of Second Street in Lewes, discovered that two of his ducks had been deliberately killed. As part of the play, museum visitors will serve as detectives, meeting the alleged perpetrator and searching for clues to determine who committed this heinous crime. Guests of all ages will enjoy participating in this historical whodunit.
Admission is free but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required. To reserve a space, call 302-645-1148 by Friday, Oct. 20.
Walking tours of tombstones in St. Peter's Episcopal Church graveyard will explore this historic burial ground at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 28. In Mysteries of History, historic-site interpreter Beth Gott will lead walking tours that explore the unusual tombstones of the church graveyard in Lewes. Tours will depart from the Zwaanendael Museum.
Participation is free but, due to space restrictions, reservations for the tours are required. To reserve a space, call 302-645-1148 by Friday, Oct. 27.
The Zwaanendael Museum was built in 1931 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the state's first European colony, Swanendael, established by the Dutch along Hoorn Kill (present-day Lewes-Rehoboth Canal) in 1631. Designed by E. William Martin, the architect of Legislative Hall and the Hall of Records in Dover, the museum is modeled after the town hall in Hoorn, the Netherlands, and features a stepped facade gable with carved stonework and decorated shutters. The museum's exhibits and presentations provide a showcase for Lewes-area maritime, military and social history.
