Carolyn's Blog

Between 1851 and 1854, Quaker merchant Joseph Shipley built this Gothic Revival mansion to reflect the beauty of an English country estate. Indeed, Rockwood is a magnificent site, once having a view of the Delaware River in the distance.  Today, Rockwood Mansion, a part of Rockwood Park, is owned and operated by New Castle County, with the help of the Friends of Rockwood.  The mansion was given to the County by descendants of Shipley, but the furniture had to be purchased by the Friends from the family, piece by piece, creating the beautiful setting you see today.

The Rockwood Park entrance is located just south of Shipley Road on the Washington Street Extension  just north of the city of  Wilmington, Delaware.

A recent Christmas party for the Friends of Rockwood saw the house decorated by the Friends and in fine holiday style. One of the unusual survivals is the original Victorian conservatory, seen below. Fund raising is currently under way to restore this gem.

One of the fun things is to see the original furniture and clothes laid out on the beds and in the wardrobe. I especially loved the cushy clothes hangers.

If you wish to visit the mansion, there are guided tours on the hour Wednesday - Sunday. 
10:00 am - 3:00 pm. You can call for tour and group tour information at (302) 761- 4340.

The Dining Room is set up for a Christmas feast, so come on down and visit (just don't try and eat any of the faux food!).  Banquet facilities are available in the renovated carriage house at Rockwood Park.  There was a wedding party there the night we were at the house.  Looked like a fun place!