The Cannonball House, Burton-Ingram House and Ryves Holt House - the very names are so closely associated with Lewes and its wonderful history that often history and architecture are intertwined. Historic architecture has been a wonderful asset that has made Lewes a nationally recognized jewel for history buffs, architectural historians and those who feel at home among the quaint streets of this small town on Delaware Bay. How many people do not enjoy walking the streets of Lewes on a quiet, warm spring evening to enjoy the peace and tranquility of this truly historic town?

On May 17, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the Delaware State Historic Preservation Office, and Preservation Delaware will offer a workshop for all Sussex Countians to find out more about the benefits of historic preservation in terms of community pride, creative ideas for reuse of historic structures, economic feasibility and the ability to retain a sense of place. Many Sussex County communities are facing a future without their respective pasts as older homes are abandoned or destroyed; the sense of history and place these structures add to any community is essential for maintaining the character and essence of southern Delaware.

The Lewes Historical Society is serving as local host for this program that costs $10.00 and will be held at St. Peter's Church Hall at Second and Mulberry Streets in Lewes. The cost of the program includes handouts, a boxed lunch and a tour of the Cannonball House -- one of Lewes' most famous landmarks and a house that was on the verge of demolition before being restored by the Lewes Historical Society. Today the house is a maritime museum and adds to the charm of Lewes' historic waterfront; previously the house was a residence, small general store, restaurant, Laundromat and even served as the mayor's office for a short time. Interactive, participation-driven discussion and activities are planned to help attendees understand exactly how historic preservation can positively affect a town for the benefit of all residents and members of the community. The program will look at the many positive elements historic preservation adds to a town -- the most important of which is to maintain the unique character of a town such as Lewes as a testament for generations yet to come.

A free slide show and reception will follow the program at 4 PM. Representatives of the National Trust will discuss similar historic preservation projects along the East Coast at St. Peter's Church Hall - Second and Mulberry Streets - and a cocktail hour will follow at the Lewes Historic Complex located at Second and Shipcarpenter Street in Lewes. All are invited to attend.

For more information and to reserve a place for the program, please contact Michael DiPaolo at the Lewes Historical Society at 645-7670. Reservations will be held at the door.

©2002-2005 The Lewes Historical Society