Fisher-Martin House
Delaware's oldest house on its original foundation, offering a glimpse into 17th-century construction and naval hero Jacob Jones.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Fisher-Martin House
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Delaware's oldest house on its original foundation, offering a glimpse into 17th-century construction and naval hero Jacob Jones.
"A wonderful quick stop to learn about unique construction and a local naval hero."
Free to Explore! :money_with_wings:
Admission is free, making it a great quick stop. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the ground floor.
Architectural Insights :hammer:
Look for exposed wall sections to appreciate the house's 300+ years of construction evolution.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Original 17th-Century Construction
Interior Walls
See layers of history with exposed walls revealing original construction techniques, including unique cotton insulation.
Naval Hero Jacob Jones Exhibit
Ground Floor
Learn about the life of War of 1812 hero Jacob Jones, who lived in this historic home as a child.
Gallery Store Finds
Entrance Area
Discover unique, handmade jewelry and art from local artists, perfect for a special souvenir.
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Passport Stamp Update
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free to Explore! :money_with_wings:
Admission is free, making it a great quick stop. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the ground floor.
Architectural Insights :hammer:
Look for exposed wall sections to appreciate the house's 300+ years of construction evolution.
Local Art Treasures :gem:
The attached gallery store offers unique handmade items, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.
Historical Context :scroll:
Docents offer fascinating history; read signs if you prefer a self-paced experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free to Explore! :money_with_wings:
Admission is free, making it a great quick stop. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the ground floor.
Architectural Insights :hammer:
Look for exposed wall sections to appreciate the house's 300+ years of construction evolution.
Local Art Treasures :gem:
The attached gallery store offers unique handmade items, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.
Historical Context :scroll:
Docents offer fascinating history; read signs if you prefer a self-paced experience.
Passport Stamp No Longer Available :x:
The First State Passport stamp has been removed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Fisher-Martin House a charming and informative stop, especially appreciating its status as Delaware's oldest house on its original foundation and the insights into historical construction. The free admission and the unique local art in the attached gallery are frequently highlighted as positives. However, some feel the exhibits could be more extensive, and the absence of the First State Passport stamp is a noted disappointment.
"This museum is on the right side and the Gallery store is to the left side for shopping when you enter the building.
A wonderful couple of gentlemen explained about the building and the owners that occupied it. The more famous one will be Jacob Jones. You may have not heard about him, but from a Naval perspective, there is a lot of historic value. Checkout how it was constructed as it is unique. They used cotton as an installation which is still there in the walls.
If you are looking for the First State Passport stamp while hitting the trail, they no longer have it. Due to them not owning the house AND the land, they took away the stamp and designation 🤬"
Daniel Grove
"Cool historic house, small, free to tour, also serves as a welcome center to Lewes. They have an info counter & shop of sorts in the entryway, then a little circular "tour route" through the ground floor of the house off to the right. They gave us a guide for this but I really would have been better off just reading the signs, there were plenty and the space was small enough (the house is from the 1600s!) that adding another person to the group felt crowded. The exhibits focus on the life of War of 1812 naval hero Jacob Jones who commanded USS Wasp - and also lived in this house as a child. The exhibits were informative. I would have liked to see more on the architecture of the house, since they did have portions of the wall partially opened so you could see the multiple layers of construction done throughout the past 300+ years. Overall this was a great quick stop on our walk from the Lewes Historical Society's Lewes Maritime Museum at Cannonball House down to the Lewes Historical Society Main Campus off Shipcarpenter Street. I recommend sticking your head in here for a few minutes if on foot or just arriving in Lewes and looking for a place to start your adventure."
Evan Dwyer
"Well the house would be cool if there was actual an display or exhibits or anything resembling a natl historic park besides a stamp and the brochure. The oldest house on it's original foundation in Delaware deserves a little better. The very nice volunteer seemed more interested in rushing us out and getting us to the local Lewes museum."
yolanda alejandre
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fisher-Martin House is centrally located in Lewes, Delaware. It's easily accessible on foot if you're exploring the historic district. Parking is available nearby, though it can be busy during peak tourist seasons.
Yes, there are parking options in the vicinity of the Fisher-Martin House. Street parking is available, and there are also public lots within walking distance.
Absolutely! The Fisher-Martin House is part of the Lewes Historical Society's campus and is a short walk from the Lewes Maritime Museum at Cannonball House and the main campus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Fisher-Martin House is free. It's a wonderful opportunity to experience a historic site without any cost.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Lewes Historical Society website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
No advance booking is required as admission is free. You can typically walk in during operating hours.
The ground floor of the Fisher-Martin House is generally accessible. However, as it's a historic building, some areas might have limitations. It's advisable to contact the Lewes Historical Society for specific accessibility details.
Unfortunately, the First State Passport stamp is no longer available at the Fisher-Martin House due to land ownership changes. You may need to check with other Delaware State Parks or historical sites.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find exhibits focusing on the life of naval hero Jacob Jones, who lived there as a child. You can also see original furnishings and exposed sections of the house's unique construction.
A visit to the Fisher-Martin House is usually quite brief, often around 20-30 minutes, as it's a small house with a focused exhibit.
While docents are often present to answer questions, the tour is generally self-guided through the ground floor. You can read informative signs about the house's history and architecture.
The Fisher-Martin House is significant as it's believed to be the oldest house in Delaware still standing on its original foundation, dating back to the 17th century.
The house showcases its evolution over 300+ years, with exposed wall sections allowing visitors to see different layers of construction, including unique insulation methods.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Yes, there is a gallery store located in the entryway. It features handmade jewelry and art from local artists, making it a great place to find unique souvenirs.
The gallery store offers a selection of handmade jewelry, artwork, and other unique crafts created by local artisans.
Lewes has a vibrant dining scene with many restaurants located within walking distance of the Fisher-Martin House, offering a variety of cuisines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that it's a free, self-guided tour of the ground floor, so it's best suited for families who can appreciate a quick historical immersion. The attached gallery store also provides an opportunity for kids to see unique local crafts, though supervision is recommended. It's a good addition to a day of exploring Lewes's other historical sites.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
The exhibits on naval hero Jacob Jones add another layer of historical depth, connecting the house to a notable figure in American naval history. Docents are often available to share fascinating details, and the self-guided tour allows for focused observation of the architectural details. It’s a compact but information-rich experience for anyone keen on understanding the past through its structures.
🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Unique Finds
Visitors have praised the quality and uniqueness of the items available, with some even having the chance to meet the artists. It’s an ideal place to find a special memento of your trip to Lewes, whether it's a piece of art that catches your eye or a beautifully crafted piece of jewelry.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Fisher-Martin House
One particularly fascinating aspect highlighted by visitors is the use of cotton as insulation within the walls. This innovative (for its time) approach to building is a detail rarely seen today and offers a glimpse into the resourcefulness of early builders. The house's evolution is not just about additions but also about the preservation and understanding of its original structure, making it a valuable site for architectural enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
While the primary focus is often on the historical figures associated with the house, the architectural integrity and the visible layers of construction are equally compelling. It’s a living museum where the building itself tells a story of time, craftsmanship, and adaptation.
Naval Hero Jacob Jones: A Local Connection
Learning about Jacob Jones provides a personal narrative to the historical significance of Lewes. The exhibits aim to educate visitors about his contributions to the U.S. Navy and his role in pivotal moments of American history. This connection transforms the house from just an old building into a place that nurtured a national hero, offering a deeper understanding of the individuals who shaped the nation's past.
For those interested in military history or the War of 1812, the Jacob Jones exhibit offers a unique, localized perspective. It’s a reminder that significant historical figures often have humble beginnings, and their formative years can be tied to places like the Fisher-Martin House.
The Gallery Store: A Hub for Local Art
Visitors have shared positive experiences meeting the artists themselves, such as Jen, who was highlighted for her handmade jewelry. This personal interaction adds value to the shopping experience, allowing patrons to connect with the creators and learn about their craft. It’s a perfect spot to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir or a special gift that commemorates a visit to Lewes.
The Gallery Store complements the historical tour by offering a contemporary artistic perspective, demonstrating the ongoing vibrancy of Lewes's creative community. It’s a delightful addition that enhances the overall visitor experience, blending history with local commerce and creativity.
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