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Historic Odessa Foundation

About the Historic Odessa Foundation

Make a day of it and enjoy the beautiful and tranquil village of Odessa, DE.

The Historic Odessa Foundation has created a memorable experience for your whole family. With one ticket, you will explore historic houses, grounds and gardens, and a beautiful museum collection.

Begin your day at the Visitor’s Center where you can view the center’s current exhibit and purchase your tour ticket. The tour includes a guided walk through the heart of Odessa, including the Foundation’s five main properties outbuildings, gardens and grounds. 

If you’re following the Delaware History Trail the Houses of Odessa are on it! 

Logistics:
There is street parking throughout the Historic Downtown.

For reservations, contact 302-378-4119. 

Special events may impact hours at the Visitor Center, call 302-378-4119 to confirm or follow on Facebook.

Hours:

  • The Historic Houses of Odessa are open to the public March through December, Tuesday through Saturday, 10 AM – 4:30 PM and Sunday 1 PM – 4:30 PM.  Open Monday by reservation only. Closed on holidays.
  • The last tour each day begins at 3 PM.
  • Group and School Tours are offered year-round by reservation.

Admission

  • Adults, $10
  • Groups, Seniors, Students, $8
  • Children under 6 are free
  • Member Discounts available


Getting Here:

Address: 201 Main St, Odessa, DE 19730
Find on Google Maps

Fun Facts:

  • Known in the 18th-century as Cantwell’s Bridge, Odessa played a vital role in commercial life along the Delaware River as a busy grain shipping port. 
  • In 1845, a fugitive slave from Maryland named Sam approached the Corbit home begging for refuge. Sam was hidden by Mary Corbit behind this tiny door in the attic of the Corbit-Sharp house.
  • The wood water pump in front of the Historic Pump House c.1780 is indicative of the public nature of the center of town. The pump was a necessity for thirsty travelers who otherwise would have had to beg a drink from a resident or purchase it at a livery stable or tavern.
  • Picnicking on the grounds is permitted, picnickers are required to remove all trash; shade tents, charcoal or gas grills and bonfires are not permitted.

Know Before You Go

Tours of the historic buildings take a minimum of 90 minutes and include steps to entries and multiple staircases within buildings; wear comfortable walking shoes.

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