Please note: this exhibit is closed December 31, 2006 - for reference only.

Ring in this new year's holiday season with a visit to the Read House & Gardens in historic New Castle.  The Read House is decorated for the holidays giving visitors a glimpse into the lives of the first and the last family who called this magnificent mansion home during the past 200 years.

As visitors tour the early 19th century Read rooms and then tour the early 20th century Laird rooms they will learn about the way in which each family celebrated first Christmas and then the New Year one week later.

Visitors will also discern a pronounced difference between 19th and 20th century traditions surrounding both holidays, from the understated holiday of the the Reads in the 1800s to the more lavish decorations, gifts, food, and festivities of the Lairds.

Step back in time with the Historical Society of Delaware this holiday season to see how holiday celebrations changed within the 100 years separating the times of the Reads and then the Lairds resided in the house.  Then compare it to your own holiday traditions today.

Click here for a picture gallery of the Holiday exhibit at the Read House.

For information please call (302) 322-8411.

Click here for information on our special, limited time,
Holiday Tours

Read House & Gardens
42 The Strand - New Castle, Delaware 19720
Directions