Dover in Kent County, Delaware — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Woodburn: The Governor's House
First State Heritage Park at Dover
This house was built for Charles Hillyard III ca. 1798. At the time, it was considered one of the grandest in Kent County. When Hillyard died in 1814, his son-in-law, Dr. Martin W. Bates purchased the house. Bates lived here with his wife Mary and her three younger sisters. The house was sold to Daniel and Mary Cowgill in 1825. The first known reference to the name "Woodburn" was in an 1845 letter written by a Cowgill family member. Before there was an official residence, Governors who did not live in Dover would often stay in rented quarters or with friends when the General Assembly was in session.
The State of Delaware purchased Woodburn in 1965, during the term of Governor Charles L. Terry, Jr., to serve as the official residence of the Governor of Delaware. First Lady Jessica Irby Terry supervised the design of the interior of Woodburn during the renovations that followed the purchase. Inspired by the sophistication of the interior architecture, Mrs. Terry chose furnishings, textile treatments, and accessories that reflected the elegance and classicism of the Georgian style of the late 18th century.
In 1966, the tradition of opening Woodburn to the public was begun by First Lady Jessica Irby Terry. Woodburn became a symbol of grace and elegance but retained a sense of warmth and intimacy. First Lady Jeanne Tribbitt, who resided full-time at Woodburn with Governor Tribbitt (1973-77), once remarked "Woodburn is a home, not a museum." During the last forty years, not all Governors have occupied the house as their primary residence, but it has always been used for many state functions from dinners and receptions to festivals, picnics and public events.
Erected by Delaware State Parks.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Notable Buildings. In addition, it is included in the Delaware State Parks series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1798.
Location. This marker has been replaced by another marker nearby. It was located near 39° 9.698′ N, 75° 31.383′ W. Marker was in Dover, Delaware, in Kent County. Marker was on King's Highway. Touch for map. Marker was in this post office area: Dover DE 19901, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this location. A different marker also named Woodburn: The Governor's House (a few steps from this marker); Hall House (within shouting distance of this marker); Woodburn (within shouting distance of this marker); Sequoia - A California Redwood (within shouting distance of this marker); Richardson and Robbins Complex (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); Annie Jump Cannon (about 800 feet away); Wesley College (approx. 0.2 miles away); …and His Accomplishments (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Dover.
Related marker. Click here for another marker that is related to this marker. This marker has been replaced with the linked marker.
Additional keywords. Dover, First State Heritage Park
Credits. This page was last revised on May 30, 2022. It was originally submitted on May 29, 2011, by Nathan Davidson of Salisbury, Maryland. This page has been viewed 878 times since then and 43 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on May 29, 2011, by Nathan Davidson of Salisbury, Maryland. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.