DELAWARE STATE - Delaware, the First State, may be small in size, but it's packed with personality. Beyond its historic significance and beautiful beaches, Delaware boasts a collection of unique traditions and cultural quirks that might seem unusual to outsiders but are embraced with pride by locals. From icy ocean plunges to a fascination with license plates, these customs reveal the heart and soul of Delaware's close-knit communities and its connection to the land and sea.
Delaware's Delightful Quirks: Five Unique Traditions of the First State
This article explores five distinctive Delaware traditions.
1. The Lewes Polar Bear Plunge: Braving the Brrr for a Good Cause
Every winter, thousands of Delawareans and visitors gather in Lewes for a decidedly chilly tradition: the Lewes Polar Bear Plunge. This isn't just a random act of cold-water madness; it's a major fundraising event for Special Olympics Delaware. Participants, often in costume, brave the frigid waters of the Atlantic Ocean (typically below 40°F) to raise money and awareness for this worthy cause. The Plunge is a testament to Delaware's community spirit and its willingness to embrace the unusual for a good cause. It is a fun event for all involved.
2. Horseshoe Crab Rescue: Flipping for Conservation
Delaware Bay is home to the world's largest spawning population of horseshoe crabs, ancient creatures that predate the dinosaurs. During the spring and summer spawning season, these crabs come ashore to lay their eggs, and sometimes they get stranded upside down on the beach. Delawareans have a tradition of gently flipping these "living fossils" back over, helping them return to the water. This simple act of conservation reflects a deep respect for nature and a recognition of the ecological importance of these creatures. It's a common sight to see volunteers and beachgoers participating in this informal rescue mission.
3. Muskrat: A Culinary Curiosity
In some parts of southern Delaware, particularly in the marshy areas around the Chesapeake Bay and Delaware Bay, muskrat is considered a traditional, seasonal delicacy. Often referred to as "marsh rabbit" to make it sound more palatable, muskrat meat is typically prepared in stews or fried. This tradition is a holdover from earlier times when trapping and utilizing local resources were essential for survival. While it might not be on everyone's menu, muskrat consumption is a unique and deeply rooted part of Delaware's culinary heritage.
4. Punkin Chunkin: The (Former) Art of Gourd Hurling
Punkin Chunkin, the act of launching pumpkins over great distances using homemade contraptions, was once a major Delaware event. The World Championship Punkin Chunkin, held annually in Sussex County for many years, drew teams and spectators from around the world. Participants built elaborate catapults, trebuchets, and even air cannons to compete for the longest pumpkin toss. However, it's crucial to note that the World Championship Punkin Chunkin has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including lawsuits and logistical issues, and has not been consistently held in Delaware since 2013. Its future remains uncertain. (Mentioning this is essential for accuracy.)
5. Low-Digit License Plates: A Status Symbol on Wheels
Delaware has a peculiar obsession with low-digit license plates. These plates, particularly the black-and-white porcelain tags issued decades ago, are highly coveted status symbols, often passed down through families or sold for exorbitant sums – sometimes reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars. The lower the number, the higher the perceived prestige. This unusual tradition reflects Delaware's small size and its close-knit community, where a low-digit license plate can be a sign of long-standing residency and social standing.
Delaware's unique traditions, from the icy Polar Bear Plunge to the surprisingly competitive world of low-digit license plates, reveal a state that embraces its quirks and celebrates its distinct identity. These customs, often rooted in the state's history, geography, and community spirit, offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of the First State. They're a reminder that sometimes, the most interesting aspects of a place are found in the things that make it different. The traditions of a place is what makes it unique.
