Welcome to the Seaford Historical Society
Welcome to the
Seaford Historical Society
Click to Read: Early History of Seaford
The Seaford Historical Society was formed in 1972 with the mission to “Preserve, Protect, and Present” our local history. In 1976 we purchased the 19th Century Governor Ross Mansion along with 12 acres of land and several period outbuildings. With donations of funds, time, and material from our local community, local and national foundations, and government entities, the Mansion was restored and furnished with period antiques, some from the Ross family. Over the years the grounds have been expanded and improved with the site becoming a hub our community.
The Ross Mansion grounds includes the c. 1850 Slave Quarter; which was moved back to its original location next to the main house and restored to how it may have appeared in the mid-1800’s.
In 1997 the Seaford Historical Society opened a museum to house its ever-growing collection of local artifacts. In 2001, with space in the museum getting tight, we purchased the old US Post Office in downtown Seaford. The 1935 building required extensive renovations, but we were able to open to the public in June 2003. Through continued improvements and the hosting of temporary and traveling exhibits, it is now considered to be one of the best small museums in Delaware!
As our mission expanded, it became apparent that we needed a facility that could host community and educational functions. In 2016, Mr. Ross Claiborne, great-grandson of Governor Ross, offered the Seaford Historical Society $400,000 in matching funds to kickstart work on what would become the Ross Station Event Center. Named to honor the Governor, our benefactor, and the whistle-stop railroad station that was once adjacent to the property; Ross Station was completed in 2019 to much fanfare. The facility has quickly become a popular venue for wedding receptions, parties, corporate events, and more.
The Seaford Historical Society is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation. IRS Form 990 available for inspection upon request.
We are also proudly associated with:
