Agriculture has always been an important aspect of life in Delaware. Because of the state's small size, family farms were able to provide much of the produce needed to feed its citizens. Peaches, strawberries, and tomatoes were produced in abundance. In the past half-century, chickens have become the largest agricultural industry, along with corn and soybeans to feed the flocks.

"Packing Berries in Field. Harrington, Del." N. Y.: The Mayrose Co., circa 1930. Delaware Postcard Collection.

"Farmer's Auction Block, Laurel, Del." Elizabeth, N. J.: Art Photo Greeting Co., circa 1939. Delaware Postcard Collection.

"Picking Peaches in Delaware." Harper's Weekly. (September 14, 1878).
Gift of Robert D. Fleck

In the article accompanying this illustration, Delaware peaches are praised. "The Delaware peaches are not an exotic growth…but a strictly local production, excelled by no other fruit of the kind in the world."

Photograph of farm in Sussex County. 1936. Willard S. Stewart. Delaware Photograph Collection.

SMALL TOWN MAIN STREET

Delaware has dozens of small towns, each with its own personality. The growth of suburbs in the northern part of the state has changed the landscape of areas such as Newport, Hockessin, and Christiana, but southern Delaware communities still maintain their small town atmosphere.

"Riverwalk" drawing by Margaret Bayalis.
Milford "Quality Living." Milford: The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Milford, Inc., circa 1990.

"Smyrna" drawing by John Moll for
Delaware Federal Writers' Project.
Delaware: A Guide to the First State. New York: The Viking Press, 1938.

"East Market Street at Night, Georgetown, Del." N. Y.: The Mayrose Co., 1946. Delaware Postcard Collection.

"Commerce Sr. Looking East, Camden, Del." N.Y.: Ess Photo Co., circa 1930. Delaware Postcard Collection.

Photograph of Frederica, Delaware. 1936. Willard S. Stewart. Delaware Photograph Collection.