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Wilmington, Delaware

Wilmington, nestled along the beautiful Christina River, is a city where history and innovation intertwine, deeply rooted in its colonial past and its legacy as a global corporate hub. We proudly stand as the home of the iconic DuPont Company, which for generations has shaped our economy and fostered a spirit of scientific advancement. From our vibrant Riverfront to our charming historic districts, Wilmington offers a unique blend of urban energy and small-town charm that truly makes it special.
Founded 1832 | Population 71,525 | Peak 71,525 (2024) | County New Castle County

Top Events in Wilmington, Delaware

1
1638 Fort Christina Established: Swedish settlers founded Fort Christina, the first permanent European settlement.
2
1739 Borough Incorporated: Area officially incorporated as a borough, named after the Earl of Wilmington.
3
1832 City Incorporated: Wilmington officially incorporated as a city, beginning a new era.
4
1981 Financial Center Act: Delaware's Financial Center Development Act transforms Wilmington into a banking hub.
5
1990 Riverfront Revitalization: Significant efforts begin to transform Wilmington's industrial riverfront.
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Historical Timeline of Wilmington

1638 History
Fort Christina Established
1739 Government
Borough Incorporated
1802 Economy
DuPont Gunpowder Mills Founded
1832 Government
City Charter Granted
1850 Transport
Railroad Era Begins
1981 Economy
Financial Services Act
1990 Culture
Riverfront Development Starts
2010 Culture
Arts & Culture Flourish

Did You Know? — Wilmington

1
Did you know Wilmington is home to the Hagley Museum and Library, preserving the original site of the DuPont Company's first black powder mills?
2
The city's Old Swedes Church (Holy Trinity Church), built in 1698, is one of the oldest churches in continuous use in the United States.
3
Wilmington was once a major shipbuilding center, particularly during World War II, contributing significantly to the war effort.
4
The Brandywine River Museum of Art, located just north of Wilmington, showcases the famous Wyeth family of artists, deeply connected to the region.
5
Wilmington is often called the 'Corporate Capital of the World' due to the large number of companies incorporated in Delaware and having a presence here.
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Famous People from Wilmington, Delaware

ES
Elisabeth Shue
Actor, Singer · Born Oct 6, 1963 · Age 62
DN
Daniel Nathans
Physiologist, Biochemist · Born Oct 30, 1928 · Died Nov 16, 1999 (age 71)
AP
Aubrey Plaza
Actor, Comedian · Born Jun 26, 1984 · Age 41
KK
Krišjānis Kariņš
Businessperson, Politician · Born Dec 13, 1964 · Age 61
HB
Hunter Biden
Lawyer, Businessperson · Born Feb 4, 1970 · Age 56

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