Virtual Roadtrip: The Hagley Museum and Library

The Black Powder Yards of the DuPont Company

The next stop on our Virtual U.S. Road Trip is The Hagley Museum and Library! The Hagley Museum includes the former estate, workers’ community, and industrial site of Eleuthrian Mills— the first high-quality black powder mill in the United States. The mill was owned by E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company and operated from 1802 – 1921. Today, you can visit one of the best restored and preserved industrial sites in the United States. There are few museums that provide such a comprehensive look into the lives of immigrants to the United States who lived and worked at the site over 200 years ago.

Expect to spend at least 3 to 4 hours visiting the museum; there is a lot to see with stone ruins of the black powder operation and dozens of restored buildings. Learn about saltpeter, mined from places like Mammoth Cave, and how it was used in the production of black powder. Also, don’t forget your camera— the property is picturesque, and you’ll get some great pictures as you explore the exhibits along the banks of the Brandywine.

Tour Tip: Take the shuttle bus from the visitor center to the du Pont family’s home and gardens for the one-hour guided tour. After the tour, check out the other buildings on the estate before returning to the black powder mill and powder yard. We suggest either walking or getting off at the first bus stop to continue your visit. The remainder of the tour is self-guided with a few exhibits and demonstrations along the way.

Following the Connection

The federal government and businessman John Jacob Astor’s American Fur Company were two of the larger customers of E.I du Pont de Nemours and Company. The American Fur Company purchased the gun powder as they expanded from the Great Lakes to the American West and eventually the Pacific Coast.

Next Stop: The Museum of the Fur Trade, Chadron, Nebraska

Detour: To see another du Pont estate, visit the Nemours Estate in Wilmington, Delaware. The 77-room Mansion was owned by Alfred I. du Pont (1864-1935). The house is over-the-top impressive. Your ticket also allows you to explore the largest formal French gardens in North America and nearly 200 acres of scenic woodlands, meadows, and lawns.

Plan Your Trip

The Hagley Museum & Library is located in Wilmington, DE, in the Brandywine Valley Region. Many people only think of Wilmington as a financial center; however, the du Pont family is associated with many museums and attractions throughout the area— all of which are worth a visit. Here are some recommendations from the travel desk at Check-it-Off Travel to consider while planning your trip to the Brandywine Region.

Photo: Courtesy of Hagley Museum and Library