For official information, visit [Delaware's Official State Website](https://delaware.gov) or [Visit Delaware](https://www.visitdelaware.com)

History & Geography

- Nickname: Delaware earned its title "The First State" by being the first of the original 13 colonies to ratify the U.S. Constitution on December 7, 1787. Learn more at the [Delaware Public Archives](https://archives.delaware.gov)

- Size: As the second-smallest state by land area, Delaware measures just 96 miles long and 39 miles wide.

- Counties: The state is divided into only three counties:

- [New Castle County](https://www.newcastlede.gov)

- [Kent County](https://www.co.kent.de.us)

- [Sussex County](https://sussexcountyde.gov)

Natural Heritage

- Horseshoe Crabs: Delaware Bay hosts the world's largest population of horseshoe crabs, ancient creatures that have existed for over 200 million years. Learn more at [Delaware State Parks](https://destateparks.com/Nature/HorseshoeCrabs)

- State Bird: The Blue Hen proudly serves as Delaware's state bird.

- State Symbols:

- Butterfly: Tiger Swallowtail

- Herb: Sweet Golden Rod

- Tree: American Holly

Discover more state symbols at [Delaware.gov](https://delaware.gov/topics/facts/symbols.shtml)

Cultural Heritage

- State Colors: Delaware's flag and license plates feature "colonial blue" and "buff" – the same colors worn in General George Washington's uniform.

- Punkin Chunkin: The state hosts the world championship of Punkin Chunkin, a unique sport where competitors launch pumpkins for distance. Visit the [World Championship Punkin Chunkin Association](https://www.punkinchunkin.com)

- Notable Landmarks: Wilmington features the world's largest Lego tower, standing 11 stories tall and constructed from over 500,000 bricks. Explore [Wilmington Attractions](https://www.visitwilmingtonde.com)

- Famous Residents: Dr. Henry Heimlich, who invented the life-saving Heimlich maneuver, was born in Wilmington.

Plan Your Visit

- [Delaware Tourism Office](https://www.visitdelaware.com)

- [Delaware State Parks](https://destateparks.com)

- [Delaware Beaches](https://www.visitdelaware.com/beaches)

- [Delaware Historical & Cultural Affairs](https://history.delaware.gov)

Note: Please verify all links and information as website addresses may change over time.