Stonum facts for kids
|
Stonum
|
|
.jpg)
Stonum, seen in 1938
|
|
 Location in Delaware
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | 900 Washington Ave., New Castle, Delaware |
|---|---|
| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | c. 1750 |
| Architectural style | Georgian |
| NRHP reference No. | 73000524 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
|
| Added to NRHP | November 7, 1973 |
| Designated NHL | November 7, 1993 |
Stonum, also known as Stoneham, is a very old and important house located at 900 Washington Avenue in New Castle, Delaware. The main part of the house was built around 1750. It was the country home of George Read (1733-1798).
George Read was a very important person in American history. He was one of the people who signed the Declaration of Independence. He also helped Delaware become the first state to agree to the Declaration. In 1973, Stonum was named a National Historic Landmark. This means it's a special place recognized for its history. It's the only building still standing that was connected to George Read.
Contents
Exploring Stonum: A Historic Home
Stonum is located just west of the main part of New Castle. You can find it at the corner of Washington Street and 9th Street. The house sits on a small, tree-filled piece of land.
What Does Stonum Look Like?
Stonum is a brick house with two and a half stories. It has a pointed roof and chimneys built into the sides. A two-story section extends from the back of the house. This back part is probably even older than the main front section.
The front of the house has four window sections. The main door is a bit to the right of the center. There's also a porch across the entire front, supported by brick posts. Inside, the house has many original features. These include beautiful old fireplaces and wooden floors.
The History of Stonum House
The oldest part of Stonum, which was likely the kitchen, was built around 1730. The front part of the house was added sometime before 1769. More changes were made in 1850, and a concrete porch was added in the 1920s.
Long ago, the house had a great view of the Delaware River. Now, tall trees and other buildings block that view.
George Read's Connection to Stonum
During the 1750s and 1760s, Stonum was used as a farm by George Read. It's not clear if the main part of the house was built when he owned it or before. This house is special because it's the only building left that was connected to George Read.
George Read was a very important leader in Delaware. He played a big role during the time of the American Revolution. He helped write Delaware's first state constitution. He also served in the Continental Congress, where he signed the United States Declaration of Independence. Later, he was the President of Delaware. He also attended the Philadelphia Convention, where the United States Constitution was written.
