About Us

The Old Swedes Foundation a non profit, educational organization that promotes the understanding of the history of the Old Swedes Historic Site and its relationship in colonial Delaware Valley history. Come and explore the site as we share the stories of New Sweden, New Amsterdam and the era of William Penn through the history of the Hendrickson House, Old Swedes Church, and burial grounds. Now in its fourth century, Old Swedes Church plays a relevant and significant role in illustrating and interpreting the heritage of our state and nation.

Check out the wide array of events and school programs that we offer. Don’t miss the Four Centuries Fete or the tours of the burial grounds to learn of ghostly happenings by the "historical folk" who inhabit this hallowed ground. Rounding out the year’s event is the Sankta Lucia Festival—the festival of light. That’s when Lucia, wearing her crown of lighted candles, leads the procession of attendants, star boys, and "tomtar" (house elves) in a concert of traditional Swedish songs.

The Old Swedes Historic Site is located on a ten acre pastoral setting in downtown Wilmington, just minutes from the Amtrak Station and the Riverfront. Within our site are 2 historic properties, a labyrinth, over 370 year old burial grounds with historic markers, research library, photo archives, museum shop, and administrative offices. To become a member or contribute to the preservation of this National Historical Landmark view the member and support page.

Mission

The purpose of this corporation shall be to provide for the care, maintenance, preservation, and promotion of the Old Swedes Church, Old Swedes Burial Grounds and Hendrickson House in the city of Wilmington, Delaware, as historical monuments and points of interest. In connection therewith, the corporation shall acquire and maintain a library, provide educational tours of the grounds, Old Swedes Church, and Hendrickson House, and archive and make available the historical records of Holy Trinity (Old Swedes) Church and Burial Grounds to those involved in genealogical and historical research. (From the Old Swedes Foundation Bylaws)

Staff

Rebecca L. Wilson: Executive Director

Donna Draper: Visitor Services Coordinator

Board

James A. Bayard, President
Max Dooley, Vice President
Toni Spille, Treasurer
G. James Symonds, Secretary

Steven Amick
The Rev. Patricia Downing (Ex Officio)
Wade Catts
Norma Ewing
Mitchell (Mike) Houser
Catherine Julian
Abdullah Muhammad
Margaret Tigue
Clinton Tynes
Ann Hamilton
Lucas Hyman (Ex Officio)
James McBride
Earl Seppala