New spring hours set for Lewes museums

Two of The Lewes Historical Society's most popular locations offer new spring hours in April. The Cannonball House Maritime Museum will be open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., seven days a week. The Ryves Holt House Museum Gift Shop will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day.

Struck by a British cannonball during the War of 1812, the Cannonball House is home to The Lewes Historical Society’s Maritime Museum. Located on the corner of Bank and Front streets, it displays the society’s maritime collection, ranging from the Fourth Order Fresnel Lens from Fourteen Foot Bank Light in Delaware Bay to some of the remains of the fallen Cape Henlopen Lighthouse. Admission is $5 per person or is included in the ticket price of the Maritime Tour. Society members, students, and children enter free of charge.

Located on the corner of Second and Mulberry streets, the Ryves Holt House is the oldest house still standing in the state of Delaware. Built around 1665, it has survived fires and pirates, and has witnessed the growth and change of Lewes over the course of centuries. Today it serves as The Lewes Historical Society’s Visitor Center and Museum Gift Shop, offering a wide variety of items including books, prints, household goods, and a variety of Lewes-themed merchandise. All of the society’s walking tours begin at this charming Lewes landmark.

The Lewes Historical Society’s Historic Complex house museums can be toured Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during Life in Lewes Tours. Everyone is invited to enjoy the society's park-like grounds free of charge, at any time. The Lewes Life-Saving Station will also be open during scheduled hours in July and August and is part of the Maritime Tours.

For more information on The Lewes Historical Society, its museums, and tours, visit www.HistoricLewes.org, or call 302-645-7670.