De Vries Monument makeover plans revealed
A local monument commemorating an event considered by many to be the most important in Delaware’s history will be getting a much-needed facelift. Details of this effort were unveiled at the Greater Lewes Foundation’s Annual Meeting held April 27.
Located near the end of Pilottown Road in Lewes, the De Vries Monument recognizes a 1631 Dutch colony whose existence eventually resulted in the formation of Delaware as a separate state.
“Without the De Vries colony, it is likely the Delaware we know and love today would instead be part of the state of Maryland,” said Denise Clemons, Lewes Historical Society board chair.
The Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs has partnered with the Greater Lewes Foundation on this renovation project. According to Amy Golden Shepard, HCA deputy director, the low-impact design will address required accessibility and safety concerns while also enabling larger numbers of visitors to enjoy the monument at a more attractive and welcoming site.
Emma Ruggerio of Vernacular Landscape Design told meeting attendees the new site will include broader interpretive signage regarding native Americans and colonial life, and incorporate native plantings to serve as a backdrop to the monument.
Mark Chura, GLF project manager, said construction on the new site should begin this fall, with completion likely by the end of the year.
Lewes will celebrate the 400th anniversary of the colony’s creation in 2031, and the monument is expected to play a central role in the festivities.
