DELAWARE - The First State, boasts a rich tapestry of history woven through its colonial past. A tangible link to these earliest days stands proudly in Wilmington: Holy Trinity Church, more affectionately known as Old Swedes Church. Consecrated in 1699, this venerable building is the oldest church in Delaware, still standing as it was initially built, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the early European settlers in the Delaware Valley.
Holy Trinity (Old Swedes) Church: Standing Tall as Delaware's Oldest Church
Old Swedes Church is a legacy of the New Sweden colony, established in the Delaware Valley in the mid-17th century. Built by Swedish settlers between 1698 and 1699, the church served the growing Lutheran congregation descended from the original colonists. Its construction represents a significant effort by the community to establish a permanent place of worship.
Consecration and Significance
The church was officially consecrated on Trinity Sunday, June 4, 1699, hence its formal name, Holy Trinity Church. Its enduring presence makes it one of the few surviving public buildings directly reflecting North America's Swedish colonial effort. The simple yet sturdy architecture provides invaluable insight into the building techniques and resources available during that period.
National Recognition: Landmark and Park
The historical and architectural importance of Old Swedes Church has been widely recognized.
- National Historic Landmark: In 1961, the church was designated a National Historic Landmark, acknowledging its exceptional significance in American history.
- First State National Historical Park: In 2013, Old Swedes Church became a partner site within the newly established First State National Historical Park, further cementing its status as a key component of Delaware's historical narrative.
Old Swedes Today
Located at East 7th and Church Street in Wilmington, Old Swedes Church is more than just a historical artifact. It often operates as an active place of worship (now typically Episcopal), and its grounds include a historic burial ground where many early settlers and prominent figures are interred. The site links Delaware's colonial past and the diverse groups who shaped its early history.
Holy Trinity (Old Swedes) Church stands as a powerful symbol of Delaware's origins and the enduring legacy of the New Sweden colony. As the oldest church building in the state, its stones whisper stories of faith, community, and perseverance from over three centuries ago. Its designation as a National Historic Landmark and inclusion in the First State National Historical Park underscores its importance to Delaware and the broader story of early America. A visit to Old Swedes Church offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and connect with the foundations of the First State.
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Sources:
- Old Swedes Historic Site / Holy Trinity Church
- Delaware Historical Society
- National Park Service (National Historic Landmarks Program, First State National Historical Park)
- Historical accounts of the New Sweden colony
