Dedicated to the memorial of the American Revolutionary War patriots from Delaware who fought and died in the defense and protection of American Liberty, the Delaware Continentals monument commemorates an essential element of United States history. Residing in front of Legislative Hall at the Delaware state Capitol in Dover, the monument honors the contributions of the Delaware Regiment that fought in nearly every campaign of the American Revolution, highlighting what it can mean to celebrate a piece of history in such a powerful manner.
A Call to Arms for the American Revolution
Answering the call to arms that defined the American Revolution, Delaware raised a regiment of around 600 men by the summer of 1776. This regiment performed well in the main army, initially serving in the Maryland Division and then, in 1778, in a Virginia division. Participating in countless hard-fought battles, the regiment returned to Delaware in January of 1783 and was mustered out later that year.
Depicting three Revolutionary War soldiers, the Delaware Continentals monument honors the legacy of this regiment and history. Each soldier represents one of Delaware’s three counties – Kent, New Castle and Sussex. Artist Ron Tunison made the uniforms and accouterments on each soldier as historically accurate as possible.
Featuring seating and a place for people to gather, the monument has become a hub of activity for the entire Dover community. The Delaware Continentals monument is one of the many landmarks located outside of Delaware Legislative Hall but is distinct in terms of the space and engagement that it has cultivated from visitors and as a hub for community events, highlighting what it can mean for a piece of history to define a space and entire community.
The Legacy of a Permanent Place of Honor
Designed to create a permanent place of honor in the memory of Delaware citizens who fought for the American cause, the Delaware Continentals monument represents an important piece of history for the region and nation. It highlights what it can mean for a monument to impact a community in the present while also allowing audiences of all eras to actively connect with a piece of history.
