Locally owned Puzzles has commissioned the work of Delmarva artist Carol Dyer to provide the only image of Lewes currently available as a jigsaw puzzle. The 550-piece jigsaw puzzle celebrates Lewes’ maritime heritage and the importance of the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal as a center of commerce and business for hundreds of years.

Locals and visitors alike will recognize buildings, businesses and traditions that have contributed through the ages to make the the First Town In the First State a place of historic significance and wonder. The image also gives a nod to Lewes’ recent designation by America in Bloom as the most beautiful small town in America in its class.

This image of Lewes, which is suitable for framing, joins an extensive collection of Heritage Puzzles available at Puzzles that celebrate the maritime history, flora, fauna, beach life and lighthouses to be found on the Mid-Atlantic and Eastern Seaboard.

Puzzles owner Tim Southerst said, “We were inspired to offer our customers a jigsaw image of the town that unites all of us - Lewes - that can be shared and enjoyed with family and friends. It is very humbling to speak with visitors to the store about their Lewes connections. Many have shared that they first came to Lewes and Puzzles with their grandparents, and are now bringing their children to share in a place that holds so many pleasant memories for them. Equally rewarding is the growing number of first-time visitors too.”

Carol Dyer’s paintings and prints focus on scenes and landmarks from the Delmarva Peninsula and particularly the Delaware coast. Her work captures the family holidays that were enjoyed by residents of Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia and farther afield, who journeyed by rail and coach to enjoy the tranquility of the seashore. Many of the structures in her scenes no longer stand, due to time, hurricanes and the unending wave of development.

The commitment of Lewes to preserving and celebrating its maritime heritage makes it truly unique and Dyer’s historical image timeless. Many visitors and locals alike feel her paintings express the nostalgia and enjoyment their families have enjoyed living and vacationing on the Delmarva Peninsula.

Puzzles has been welcoming locals and visitors alike for nearly 25 years. Founded in 1992, and located at 108 Front St., it is devoted to providing jigsaws, crosswords, brainteasers and games that exercise the brain: mind-powered and soul-soothing wares to provide hours of fun and enjoyment for all ages.

Puzzles is located at 108 Front St. in Lewes. Call 302-645-8013 or go to lewespuzzles.com for more information.