Lewes Beach
Zwaanendael
State: Delaware
County: Sussex County
Founded: 1631
Abandoned: 1632 (original settlement)
Peak Population: 30
The Dutch established Zwaanendael (Valley of the Swans) in 1631, making it Delaware's first European settlement. The entire colony was massacred by the Lenape in 1632 after a misunderstanding. It was later resettled as Lewes. The Zwaanendael Museum commemorates the lost colony.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Year-round
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 1 hour
Quick Facts
- First European settlement in Delaware
- Entire colony massacred in 1632
- Originally named Zwaanendael
Location
Address: Lewes, DE
Coordinates: 38.7833, -75.15