Delaware, famous as the First State to ratify the U.S. Constitution, is the second smallest American state. It became a state in 1776 after the Declaration of Independence was signed. The state flag was adopted on July 24, 1913, and the state seal on January 17, 1777.
Here are few quick facts about the “First State”
State motto of Delaware – Liberty and Independence
Delaware’s nicknames – “The First State”, “Small Wonder”, “The Diamond State”, “Blue Hen State”
Official state bug – The Lady Bug
Official state flower – Peach blossom
Official state song – “Our Delaware” written by George Hynson
Official state bird – Blue Hen chicken
State beverage – Milk
State Colors – Colonial blue and buff
Unfortunately, there are no national parks, monuments, memorials, battlefields, historic sites or seashores in Delaware. It is the only U.S. state without any units of the National Park System. However, there is a lot to do in Delaware. Hagley Museum and Library, Nemours Mansion and Gardens, Delaware Art Museum, Grand Opera House, Air Mobility Command Museum, Delaware’s Old State House and Barratt’s Chapel and Museum are few must-see places in Delaware.
Delaware’s initial population consisted of people from the British Isles and Germany. Irish, Germans, Italians, Poles and Russian Jews immigrated to Delaware during the 19th century. More than 29,135 immigrants came to the state during the first decade of the 21st century. Reports show that around 2000 immigrants obtained their green cards in 2010 and most of those who earned legal status in the U.S. in 2010 were from India, Mexico, and Kenya.