Date Posted: Tuesday, May 6th, 2025

On April 29, 2025, the Delaware Public Archives proudly unveiled two new historical markers — unique additions to the state’s long-standing program. Unlike most markers, which are proposed by the public, these were specially commissioned by the Archives to commemorate both the institution itself and the State of Delaware Historical Markers Program.

photo of de-1 marker
DE-1: Delaware Public Archives Building
Installed in 2025
photo of de-2 marker
DE-2: The State of Delaware Historical Markers Program
Installed in 2025

The markers are now permanently installed on the Archives’ property — one directly in front of the building and the other along its Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard North side. They stand as testaments to the Archives’ legacy and the nearly century-old program that has chronicled Delaware’s history across its towns, roads, and landmarks.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by Delaware Secretary of State Charuni Patibanda-Sanchez, who delivered remarks alongside Director and State Archivist Stephen M. Marz. Together, they removed the marker’s cover and led the audience to read its inscription aloud.

reading of de-1 marker
Delaware Secretary of State Charuni Patibanda-Sanchez reads the DE-1 marker inscription along with the event’s attendees.

The State of Delaware Historical Markers Program dates back to 1932, when markers were made of cast iron, painted silver and black, and featured the state’s diamond logo. Over time, the design evolved, most notably to the familiar blue and gold aluminum markers we see today.

example photo of oldest version of marker
The first style featured a diamond-shaped top, white paint with black lettering, and was made of cast iron, weighing about 300 pounds—similar in size to today’s markers.
example photo of bronze marker
At the same time, bronze tableau markers were also placed and mounted directly onto buildings and other structures.
example photo of blue-yellow marker
After the early 1930s rollout, colonial blue and yellow markers were installed until about 1960, when production switched to cast aluminum but kept the same style.
example photo of 1990s marker
In 1990, the Archives revived the program with cast aluminum markers, keeping the diamond design but updating the color scheme.
example photo of 2000s marker
By the 2000s, a larger bronze marker style was introduced to hold more text. Around 2015, it was phased out due to high costs and poor durability in Delaware’s weather.

The new markers introduce a fresh change: they now display the hand-painted Great Seal of the State of Delaware at the top, a design that will be carried forward in future installations.

photo of director and historical markers coordinator
Victoria Mooers, the State of Delaware Historical Markers Program Coordinator, and Stephen M. Marz, the Director and State Archivist, pose for a photo before the unveiling.

Stay tuned as we unveil the next locations for the newest style of historical markers!