Children's Museums
The Lewes Maritime Museum at the Cannonball House
📍 118 Front St, Lewes, DE 19958🌐 www.historiclewes.org/visit/society-properties/cannonball-house.html
🕐 Hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Thursday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Friday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Saturday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
About The Lewes Maritime Museum at the Cannonball House
The Lewes Maritime Museum at the Cannonball House is a children's museum in Lewes, DE. The Cannonball House contains an actual British cannonball lodged in its foundation from the War of 1812 bombardment of Lewes, Delaware, which is now displayed inside the museum rather than embedded in the structure. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 49 visitors.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Maritime Museum
- Historic Significance
- Only surviving Lewes structure damaged during 1812 British Bombardment
- Built
- Mid-18th century
- Highlights
- War of 1812 exhibits, working telegraph set, Delaware navigation history
- Admission
- Free (donations welcomed)
💡 Did You Know?
- The Cannonball House contains an actual British cannonball lodged in its foundation from the War of 1812 bombardment of Lewes, Delaware, which is now displayed inside the museum rather than embedded in the structure
- The museum features a working telegraph set as an interactive exhibit demonstrating early wireless electronic technology and the role Lewes played in the dawn of the electronic age
- The museum recently underwent formal documentation through the Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS) Heritage Documentation Program, indicating recognition of the building's architectural and historical significance
- The outdoor exhibits include a preserved lightship fog bell, an authentic Delaware Bay harbor pilot's skiff, and three cannons of the same style used by Lewes defenders during the 1812 bombardment
💬 What Visitors Say
- Purchase the $10 combo ticket to visit all three Lewes Historical Society museums (Maritime Museum/Cannonball House, Life-Saving Station, and History Museum) - all are within walking distance and offer better value than individual $5 donations
- Allow 30-45 minutes for your visit as the space is intentionally small but information-dense with plenty of signage. This is ideal for rainy days or as a quick, focused educational activity
- Plan your visit between April 1 - October 31 (Wed-Sat 10am-4pm) for maximum accessibility, as winter hours are more limited (Nov 1 - Dec 20 only) and the museum closes entirely December 21 - March 31
- Don't miss the outdoor exhibits in the backyard including the lightship fog bell, harbor pilot skiff, and three authentic 1812-era cannons - these provide valuable context for understanding Lewes' maritime and military history
- Bring young children - volunteer staff are known for being especially welcoming and patient with kids, offering personalized explanations and creating memorable learning experiences beyond what the signage provides
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