Selbyville, DE

County: Sussex

History

Selbyville, Delaware

Selbyville is a small town located in Sussex County, Delaware. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Nanticoke and Assawoman tribes, before European settlers arrived.

The town was founded in the late 18th century and was initially called Sandy Branch, due to its location near a sandy branch of the St. Martin's River. In the early 19th century, the town was renamed Selbyville after its prominent citizen, William J. Selby.

Selbyville experienced slow but steady growth throughout the 19th century, primarily due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which made it an attractive location for trade and commerce. The town thrived as a shipping and commercial center, with industries including agriculture, fishing, and lumber.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Selbyville became well-known for its canning industry, particularly for fruits and vegetables. Canning factories were established, providing employment opportunities for the local residents and contributing to the town's economic growth.

Over the years, Selbyville has faced challenges such as fires and economic fluctuations. However, it has managed to adapt and recover, maintaining its small-town charm and community spirit. Today, Selbyville continues to be a thriving community, with a growing population and expanding businesses.

One notable aspect of Selbyville's history is its rich cultural heritage. The town has a significant African American population, with a history rooted in the era of slavery. A historically African American neighborhood, known as Gumboro, developed around the early 19th century and has played a crucial role in shaping Selbyville's diverse community.

In recent years, Selbyville has also become known for its proximity to popular beach resorts, such as Fenwick Island and Ocean City, Maryland. Many tourists visit the town during the summer months, contributing to its local economy.

Overall, Selbyville's history is a story of resilience, adaptability, and community spirit, shaping it into the charming town it is today.

Attractions

Fenwick Island State Park

Fenwick Island State Park

A scenic beach park with swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and hiking opportunities.

Assawoman Wildlife Area

A nature reserve offering bird watching, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing.

The Freeman Stage

An outdoor performing arts venue that hosts a variety of live music, dance, and theater performances.

Bayside Marketplace

A shopping center featuring various stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

The Salted Rim

A popular restaurant and bar serving Mexican and American cuisine.

Selbyville Public Library

A community library that offers books, computer access, and various programs and events.

Lord Baltimore Elementary School

A historic school building that has been converted into an art center and gallery.

Bayville Shopping Center

A retail complex featuring shops, dining options, and services.

Hudson Fields

An event space that hosts concerts, festivals, flea markets, and other community events.

The Red Roost

A seafood restaurant and event venue known for its crab feasts and waterfront views.

Climate

Selbyville, Delaware has a humid subtropical climate. Summers in Selbyville are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-30 degrees Celsius). This season typically lasts from May to September, with July being the hottest month. Humidity levels can be quite high, making the weather feel even hotter.

Winters in Selbyville are relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit (2-7 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is not extremely common but can occur occasionally during the winter months. January is usually the coldest month.

Spring and fall in Selbyville are typically enjoyable, with mild temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (13-24 degrees Celsius). Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with the highest amounts occurring in the summer months.

Overall, Selbyville experiences a moderate climate with noticeable seasonal variations.

Neighborhoods

Selbyville, DE is a small town located in Sussex County, Delaware. While not a large town, Selbyville is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the main neighborhoods you'll find in Selbyville:

Downtown Selbyville

This is the heart of the town, where you'll find the majority of the businesses, shops, and restaurants. The downtown area has a charming and historic vibe, with some buildings dating back to the late 19th century. It's a great place to stroll around, shop, and enjoy local cuisine.

The Hollyville

Located west of downtown, The Hollyville neighborhood is known for its residential areas, including single-family homes and townhouses. It offers a more suburban feel with tree-lined streets and a quiet atmosphere. It's a popular area for families and those looking for a peaceful living environment.

Pot Nets Communities

Pot Nets is a collection of waterfront communities located along the Indian River Bay, just northeast of Selbyville. These communities offer a range of housing options including mobile homes, townhouses, and waterfront properties. Residents here enjoy access to marinas, boat ramps, private beaches, and various amenities like swimming pools and community centers.

Bayside

Bayside is a planned community situated on the outskirts of Selbyville. It offers a resort-like feel with a wide range of amenities for residents and visitors. Bayside features a championship golf course, clubhouses, swimming pools, tennis courts, fitness centers, nature trails, and a community pier. It's an attractive neighborhood for those seeking a vibrant community with ample recreational opportunities.

Keenwik West

Located on the western side of Selbyville, Keenwik West is a waterfront community bordering the Assawoman Bay. The neighborhood consists mostly of single-family homes, some of which enjoy stunning bay views. Boating enthusiasts appreciate the proximity to nearby boat ramps and marinas, while nature lovers enjoy the peacefulness of the area.

These are just a few examples of the different neighborhoods found in Selbyville, DE. Each neighborhood has its own distinct features, and residents can choose based on their preferences, whether they're looking for a downtown lifestyle, a suburban environment, or a waterfront community.

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