Newark History Museum

05/28/2026

A Castle Mall ad for a new shoe store. From the May 28, 1986 Newark Post, UD Archives.

05/14/2026

Brookside Plaza Apartments ad, 1976. From the May 11, 1976 Blue Hen, UD Archives.

05/13/2026

Fifty years after the Centennial Exposition in 1876, Philadelphia tried it again built for a new age. The 1926 Sesquicentennial Exposition celebrated 150 years of American independence with massive stadiums and grand pavilions. Behind the event was a fair marked by financial struggles, unfinished plans, and a city chasing the success of its legendary predecessor.

Thanks to UD Special Collections, we can get a closer look at the Sesquicentennial Exposition of 1926.

05/08/2026

Showing off the spirit of '76 at the Military Ball. From the 1976 Blue Hen, UD Archives.

05/07/2026

We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Bob Thomas.

Bob's love of Newark history and advocacy for preserving our shared past cannot be overstated. He was one of the founders of the Newark Historical Society and served as president through its early years. Bob's passionate efforts were instrumental in securing the historic 1877 Pennsylvania Railroad Station as the home of the Newark History Museum. He graciously donated numerous artifacts to the museum, many of which we will proudly display when the museum reopens.

Our deepest condolences and most loving thoughts go out to the Thomas family during this difficult time.

Robert Olan Thomas, Sr. age 75 of Newark, DE passed away on May 3, 2026. He was born on December 10, 1950 in Wilmington, DE to the late Olan Ray Thomas and Lorraine Mary (Tobin) Thomas. Bob was very proud of his hometown. He was one of the founders of the Newark Historical Society and served in many...

05/01/2026

Pillow fight! From the 1956 Blue Hen, UD Archives.

04/25/2026

We’re continuing our look at the 1876 Centennial celebration!

This week, we’re featuring a fascinating Cookery Book created by the Women’s Committee for the nation’s 100th anniversary. Drawing recipes from across the country, it offers a glimpse into what Americans were really eating in the 19th century

As you explore the slides, consider trying one of these historic recipes yourself and bringing a taste of 1876 into your own kitchen!

(object courtesy of UD Special Collections)

04/16/2026

1979 Main Street Scene. Courtesy of Keith Weaver.

04/09/2026

We're continuing our look at 1876 Centennial celebration!

Today, we turn to a scrapbook put together by Richard W. Davids, an attendent of the 1876 event. His substantial collection of souvenirs gives us a first-person perspective of the fair.

Explore the slides to take a closer look at this artifact, and take a journey through this historic event!

(object courtesy of UD Special Collections)

04/09/2026

Spring time on the Mall. (Now the Green.) From the 1971 Blue Hen, UD Archives.