Dover Base Housing, DE
County: Kent
History
Dover Base Housing, located in Dover, Delaware, has a rich and complex history intertwined with the development of Dover Air Force Base.
Dover Air Force Base itself was established in 1941 as the Dover Army Airfield, initially serving as a test site for aircraft and training for pilots during World War II. The base gained prominence during the Korean War when it became a vital hub for airlift operations.
As the base grew and demand for housing increased, the need for quality housing for military personnel and their families became evident. In the early years, the base primarily utilized temporary housing and barracks-style accommodations.
In the 1950s and 1960s, as the Air Force continued to expand and modernize, the need for permanent housing solutions arose. In response, the Dover Air Force Base Housing Office was established to oversee the construction and management of family housing on and off base.
Dover Base Housing, as it is known today, began its development in the late 1950s. The first residential area constructed under the Dover Base Housing program was known as "Area A," which consisted of brick Cape Cod-style homes. Over the years, additional residential areas were added, including "Area B" and "Area C," which offered a mix of single-family homes, duplexes, and multi-family units.
Throughout its history, Dover Base Housing has been continually updated and modernized to meet the changing needs of military families. Renovations and new construction projects have helped enhance the quality of housing, with improvements such as upgraded amenities, energy-efficient features, and enhanced community facilities.
In recent years, a significant milestone was marked with the Privatization of Army Lodging (PAL) initiative in 2003. Under this program, the management and operation of Dover Base Housing were transferred to a private company, Hunt Military Communities, in partnership with the Air Force.
Today, Dover Base Housing continues to provide military families with comfortable and well-maintained residential options. The community offers a range of housing styles, amenities, and support services to create a welcoming environment for service members and their families stationed at Dover Air Force Base.
Attractions
Dover Air Force Base
Visitors can explore the air force base and witness military aircraft, including the massive C-5 Galaxy cargo plane. The base also houses the Air Mobility Command Museum, which displays various aircraft and exhibits related to military aviation history.
Dover International Speedway
This NASCAR racetrack hosts several races throughout the year, including the iconic Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race. Visitors can watch thrilling races and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the speedway.
First State Heritage Park
Located within Dover, this urban park offers a variety of historical sites and attractions. Visitors can tour the Governor's Mansion, Old State House, Delaware Public Archives, and Legislative Hall, among other notable buildings.
John Dickinson Plantation
Situated just outside Dover Base Housing, this historic plantation provides insights into the life and times of John Dickinson, a prominent political figure from the American Revolution era. Visitors can explore the grounds, view the original farmhouse, and learn about colonial farming practices.
Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
Nature enthusiasts can visit this wildlife refuge, located approximately 20 miles from Dover Base Housing. The refuge offers excellent opportunities for bird-watching, hiking, and witnessing diverse wildlife, including waterfowl, songbirds, and various species of wading birds.
Capitol Park Museum
Located near the downtown area of Dover, this museum showcases Delaware's rich history and heritage. Exhibits include artifacts, documents, and interactive displays highlighting the state's role in American history and its influence on various industries.
Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village
Situated in nearby Dover, this museum focuses on the agricultural heritage of the region. Visitors can explore the various exhibits that depict the development of agriculture in Delaware, including farm machinery, rural life artifacts, and interactive displays.
The Green
This historic park, located in downtown Dover, offers a serene environment surrounded by notable buildings and landmarks. Visitors can relax, enjoy picnic spots, and appreciate the architecture of iconic structures like the Old State House and the Kent County Courthouse.
Johnson Victrola Museum
Music lovers can explore this unique museum dedicated to the history of sound recording and the Victrola company. Visitors can learn about the technological advancements made in music recording and get a glimpse into the past through various exhibits and displays.
Biggs Museum of American Art
Located nearby in downtown Dover, this museum houses an extensive collection of American fine and decorative art. Visitors can appreciate works from various time periods and diverse art styles while gaining insights into American artistic traditions.
Climate
Dover Base Housing, located in Dover, Delaware, experiences a humid subtropical climate. The region generally has four distinct seasons, with mild to hot summers and cold winters.
Summer in Dover Base Housing is characterized by warm and humid conditions. Average temperatures in the summer months, from June to August, range from the high 70s to the low 90s Fahrenheit (around 25-35 degrees Celsius). High humidity levels can make the temperature feel even hotter, especially in July and August.
Autumn in Dover Base Housing brings cooler temperatures and milder weather. In September and October, average temperatures range from the mid-60s to the high 70s Fahrenheit (around 15-25 degrees Celsius). Fall is generally considered a comfortable and pleasant season, with mild and breezy days.
Winter in Dover Base Housing can be quite cold. The months of December, January, and February experience average temperatures ranging from the low 30s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 0-10 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common during winter months, with an average annual snowfall of around 16 inches (40 cm). Residents should be prepared for cold temperatures and occasional winter storms.
Spring in Dover Base Housing sees temperatures warming up and nature coming back to life. March, April, and May experience average temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the high 60s Fahrenheit (around 5-20 degrees Celsius). Spring can bring some rain and occasional thunderstorms.
Overall, Dover Base Housing experiences a fairly moderate climate, with temperature extremes more likely in the summer and winter. Residents can enjoy a range of seasonal activities and should be prepared for variations in weather throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
Dover Base Housing is a residential community located on Dover Air Force Base in Delaware. It offers a variety of neighborhoods for military personnel and their families. Here are the different neighborhoods you can find at Dover Base Housing:
Eagle Heights
Eagle Heights is a popular neighborhood within Dover Base Housing. It offers a mix of single-family homes with various floor plans and sizes, ranging from two to four bedrooms. The neighborhood is characterized by tree-lined streets and well-maintained yards.
Freedom's Choice
Freedom's Choice is another neighborhood within the base housing community. It offers spacious single-family homes with three to four bedrooms. The neighborhood is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and features a community center, playgrounds, and open green spaces.
Liberty Crossing
Liberty Crossing is a newer neighborhood at Dover Base Housing. It features modern and energy-efficient homes with contemporary designs. The neighborhood offers a mix of single-family homes and townhomes, with options for two to four bedrooms. Liberty Crossing also has its own community center and recreational amenities.
Heritage Park
Heritage Park is a neighborhood that offers both single-family homes and townhouses. The homes in this community range from two to four bedrooms and are designed to accommodate different family sizes. Heritage Park also includes a community center and outdoor recreational areas.
Valor Greens
Valor Greens is a neighborhood within Dover Base Housing that primarily consists of three-bedroom townhomes. These townhomes are spacious and offer various amenities for comfortable living. Valor Greens is conveniently located near the base amenities, making it easily accessible to residents.
Patriot Village
Patriot Village is a neighborhood that provides apartment-style living for military personnel and their families. It offers two and three-bedroom apartment complexes with modern amenities. Patriot Village is designed to provide a supportive community atmosphere.
Each neighborhood within Dover Base Housing offers a range of amenities and a sense of community. They are all located near the base's facilities, such as schools, shopping areas, recreational centers, and medical facilities, making them convenient for military families.