History

Founded on a Mingo village site in 1808 and named for the Delaware tribe, Delaware was once in the running for state capital. Ohio Wesleyan University was founded with a gift of a hotel building in 1844. Rutherford B. Hays’ family once lived here as well. During the civil war, Delaware was the site of two training camps for the U.S. Army, increasing infrastructure and rail lines into the small city. After the completion of the I-270 beltway, the area grew rapidly, with many new residential areas.  

Neighborhood

The downtown area is a lovely blend of old and new, with storefronts that have been occupied for 100 years standing next to newer modern businesses. Love older, stately homes? Enjoy a look at the Historic Northwest neighborhood, close to downtown with tree-lined streets and old world craftsmanship. Looking for something modern, but an established neighborhood? There are plenty to choose from, and Delaware is still growing if you are eager to build a custom dream home in a great neighborhood.  The Labuda Team can represent your interests when using a builder!

Arts & Culture

The Strand Theatre is the longest continuously operating movie theatre in Ohio, the Arts Castle is home to the Delaware County Cultural Arts Center where classes and performances can be enjoyed, and there are a number of fairs, festivals, and art shows throughout the year. One of the biggest is the Delaware Arts Festival, a juried event attracting artists from all over the country. Want more? Capitol city arts and performances are just minutes away in Columbus. 

Shopping

In addition to the traditional downtown shopping area with its quaint boutiques, antique stores, weekly farmer’s market, and more, there’s the Delaware Commons pedestrian mall, which offers chain stores for local shopping. Want serious big city fashion and options? Columbus offers Polaris Fashion Mall and Easton Town Center just twenty minutes away by car.  

Dining

Staas Brewing Company and Restoration Brew Worx are part of a thriving craft beer scene in Delaware, and dozens of coffee shops, and restaurants are available in Delaware. Looking for fine dining? Columbus offers world-class fare just minutes away. 

Schools

Delaware City Schools serve 5700 students, with 5 elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school. Want a deeper dive? Here’s their annual report. Private schools in the area include Delaware Christian School, Grace Community School, and St. Mary’s. The Delaware Area Career Center serves the community as a vocational school for high school students and adults. Ohio Wesleyan University offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, and the Methodist Theological School In Ohio is a graduate seminary. 

What’s special

Delaware offers a wonderful blend of the historic, the new, arts, food, and warmth into a wonderful community that welcomes new residents and is thoughtfully growing toward a bigger city without losing that hometown feel.  

Want to learn more about Delaware? Contact The LaBuda Team today!