The Town of Magnolia claims both Swedish and Dutch heritage but was formally founded in 1885 by citizens within the Murderkill Hundred.   The area was known as Caroon Manor when it was first founded and the land had been given by the Duke of York.

Traveling the Delaware Bayshore Byway, you’ll find Magnolia four miles west of the St. Jones’ Neck Discovery Zone, the southernmost discovery zone on the original Bayshore Byway.  The town is the first discovery zone on the Bayshore Byway Extension, which was added in 2017, and extends to Lewes.

Magnolia is unique among the Delaware Bayshore discovery zones in that it is the only zone not located on a body of water. However, it is still connected to the Delaware Bay in that area farmers once historically could participate in a regional agricultural market due to their proximity to the Delaware Bay.

That uniqueness doesn’t end there, making Magnolia all the more special.  It’s the only town in the entire State of Delaware that has a circular governing border. Magnolia has maintained its circular shape, which is one-half mile in diameter, since its chartering in 1885, despite significant development around it.  Pretty remarkable!

Enjoy walking through town on its extensive sidewalks that allow a feel for the every day life of Magnolia, and will lead you to the local restaurant, church and furniture store.  There are also three remarkable historic sites to visit; the Matthew Lowber House, the John B. Lindale Home and the Murderkill/Motherkill Friends Burial Ground where Warner Mifflin, an important abolitionist in the 1700’s is buried.

Interested in spending time on the waterways sightseeing, kayaking or fishing?  Head over to Scotton Landing’s public use boat ramp on the St. Jones River, about one mile to the northeast of Magnolia. Additionally, there is an ADA accessible fishing pier at this location.

Getting Here:
Magnolia is located in Kent County Delaware.
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