Burgwin-Wright House & Gardens

Stepping into the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens is like stepping back into the colonial era. Erected in 1770, it stands as Wilmington’s only colonial-era structure open to the public. The house, which now operates as a museum, takes you on a journey back in time with a rich display of 18th and 19th-century antiques.

Surrounding the house is a sprawling colonial-style garden. Covering an acre, the garden is a compilation of seven distinct areas, each holding its unique charm. Walking through it is like flipping through pages of a beautifully illustrated botanical guide from the past.

Adding another layer to its rich history, the Burgwin-Wright House was built on the ballast stone walls of the former city jail, dating back to 1744. While the house has transformed, it still retains echoes of its past. The outdoor and sub-basement jail cells and a freestanding kitchen house bear testament to its intriguing past.

Guided tours of the Burgwin-Wright House offer much more than just architectural and historical insights. They weave together stories of the people who lived and worked here, painting a vivid picture of life during colonial times. An inspiring tale is that of the women’s organization that banded together to save this architectural gem from the clutches of demolition.

Discovering the Burgwin-Wright House & Gardens is like peeling back layers of time. Every room, every artifact, every stone has a tale to tell, all waiting for history enthusiasts to uncover and appreciate.