Museum to present Story of Battleship Delaware Nov. 16
Capt. William Manthorpe will return to the Rehoboth Beach Historical Museum at 7 p.m., Friday, Nov. 16, to tell the story of the USS Delaware (BB-28), a dreadnought battleship launched in January 1909. It was the sixth ship to be named for the First State. The program will be held in the museum’s new lecture hall.
Manthorpe’s book, "A Century of Service, The U.S. Navy on Cape Henlopen, Lewes, Delaware: 1898-1996," covers the history and dedication of the men and women who protected the shores of Cape Henlopen and played roles in Atlantic Coast defense.
A retired Navy captain and government civilian senior executive, Manthorpe served 40 years as an intelligence professional. In 1994, he retired as the deputy director of Naval Intelligence. In 1998, Manthorpe retired full time to the Delaware coast and has been researching, writing and speaking on naval and maritime history of Delaware.
“My interest in the naval history of Delaware was stimulated by the local newspaper columns of Michael Morgan. I am delighted that the museum and the Rehoboth Beach Historical Society offered me the opportunity to share this wealth of information of those who served and honor their years of service at Cape Henlopen,” said Manthorpe.
Rehoboth Beach Museum Director Nancy Alexander said, “Our planned talks involving the role of Delaware in military history are always among our most popular events, and we expect another full house for Capt. Manthorpe’s lecture on Nov. 16.”
Reservations are required; call 302-227-7310 to ensure a space. The program is free for members. A $5 donation is suggested for nonmembers. The museum is at 511 Rehoboth Ave. There is free parking and the museum is handicapped accessible. For more information, go to www.rehobothbeachmuseum.org.
