Wilmington Manor, DE
County: New Castle
History
Wilmington Manor is a small unincorporated community located in New Castle County, Delaware, United States. The history of Wilmington Manor dates back to the 17th century when the area was settled by European colonists.
The first European settlers arrived in the Wilmington Manor area in the early 1600s, primarily from England. They were attracted to the region due to its proximity to the Delaware River and its fertile soil, ideal for agricultural pursuits.
In 1638, a Swedish expedition led by Peter Minuit established the first European settlement in Delaware called Fort Christina. The area surrounding Fort Christina later became the city of Wilmington, which would eventually encompass the Wilmington Manor community.
Over the next few centuries, the Wilmington Manor area continued to grow and thrive. In the late 18th century, the construction of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal further increased transportation and trade opportunities for the region.
Wilmington Manor played a notable role during the American Revolutionary War. The area was strategically important due to its location along the Delaware River, and it saw significant military activity during the war. British troops occupied the region for some time, and several notable battles took place nearby.
In the 19th century, the Wilmington Manor area saw the rise of industrialization. The construction of railroads and the expansion of the Wilmington and Western Railroad provided further economic growth and development.
Throughout the 20th century, Wilmington Manor continued to be primarily a residential area, with some small-scale commercial and industrial activities. The community experienced some growth during the post-World War II era, attracting new residents due to its proximity to the cities of Wilmington and Newark.
Today, Wilmington Manor is a suburban community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. It is located near major highways and offers easy access to the city of Wilmington and the wider Delaware region.
The history of Wilmington Manor is intertwined with the broader history of the region and the state of Delaware. Its rich heritage, from early European settlement to industrialization and residential growth, makes it a significant part of Delaware's story.
Attractions
Governor Printz Park
A waterfront park located along the Delaware River with hiking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the river.
Delaware Art Museum
A museum featuring a wide range of art collections, including American art, illustrations, and Pre-Raphaelite artworks.
Hagley Museum and Library
A historic site and museum showcasing the birthplace of the DuPont company. Visitors can explore the restored mills, gardens, and workers' community.
Old New Castle
A historic district featuring cobblestone streets, colonial-style houses, and historic landmarks like the Amstel House and the Old Courthouse.
Bellevue State Park
A picturesque park offering hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a beautiful mansion-turned-conference center.
Delaware Park Casino
A casino and horse racing venue featuring slot machines, table games, and live horse racing events.
Christiana Mall
A large shopping mall with a wide range of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Delaware Children's Museum
A hands-on interactive museum designed for children, offering exhibits on science, technology, and art.
Brandywine Zoo
A small zoo featuring a variety of animal exhibits, including red pandas, river otters, and bald eagles.
Delaware Sports Museum and Hall of Fame
A museum celebrating the history and achievements of Delaware athletes, with exhibits on various sports including football, basketball, and baseball.
Climate
Wilmington Manor, Delaware experiences a humid subtropical climate. The area generally has hot and humid summers, while winters are relatively mild. Here are some specific details about the climate in Wilmington Manor:
Summers
Summers in Wilmington Manor are hot and often humid. Average high temperatures in the summer months, from June to August, range from 85°F (29°C) to 90°F (32°C). Heatwaves with temperatures exceeding 90°F (32°C) are not uncommon. Humidity levels can be quite high, making the heat feel more oppressive. Thunderstorms are also quite frequent during the summer months.
Winters
Winters in the area are generally mild compared to many other regions in the U.S. Average temperatures in winter, from December to February, range from 35°F (2°C) to 45°F (7°C). While snowfall occurs, it is relatively infrequent and usually light. However, colder Arctic air masses can occasionally push temperatures below freezing for short periods.
Spring and Fall
Spring and fall in Wilmington Manor can be quite pleasant. Spring temperatures gradually warm up with average highs ranging from 55°F (13°C) to 75°F (23°C). Fall sees a gradual cooling down, with average highs ranging from 60°F (16°C) to 75°F (23°C). These seasons are generally comfortable with mild temperatures and lower humidity.
Precipitation
Wilmington Manor receives an average annual precipitation of around 42 inches (1067 mm). Rainfall is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, with no particularly dry or wet seasons. Thunderstorms can be quite common in the summer months, and winter precipitation usually comes in the form of rain. Snowfall averages around 20 inches (51 cm) annually.
Overall, the climate of Wilmington Manor is characterized by hot and humid summers, mild and relatively snow-light winters, and pleasant spring and fall seasons.
Neighborhoods
Wilmington Manor is a census-designated place located in New Castle County, Delaware. It is a suburban area with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial developments. Although Wilmington Manor is a small community, it is made up of several distinct neighborhoods. Here are some of the neighborhoods and their characteristics:
Manor Park
This neighborhood is one of the oldest in Wilmington Manor and features tree-lined streets with a mix of single-family homes. Manor Park is known for its community park, playgrounds, and recreational facilities.
Parkway West
Located in the western part of Wilmington Manor, Parkway West is primarily a residential area with a variety of housing options, including townhouses and single-family homes. It offers a peaceful and family-friendly environment.
Leedom Estates
Situated east of Wilmington Manor, Leedom Estates is a well-established neighborhood with larger homes and spacious yards. It is known for its quiet atmosphere and is often sought after by families looking for more space.
Simonds Gardens
This neighborhood is located in the southern part of Wilmington Manor and consists primarily of single-family homes. Simonds Gardens features tree-lined streets and is known for its close-knit community feel.
Cedar Heights
Situated to the north, Cedar Heights is a small neighborhood characterized by its mix of older homes and newer construction. It offers a diverse range of housing options and is popular among first-time homebuyers and young professionals.
Fort DuPont State Park
Located on the eastern edge of Wilmington Manor, this neighborhood is home to the historic Fort DuPont State Park. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and waterfront views. The neighborhood itself is relatively quiet and is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
These are just a few examples of the different neighborhoods within Wilmington Manor. Each neighborhood has its own unique characteristics, but all provide a suburban atmosphere with easy access to amenities, schools, and major highways for commuting to nearby cities like Wilmington or Philadelphia.