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Tuesday, February 14, 2012

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Home > Community Development > Community Profiles > Dover, DE Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) > Historical Information

Community Profile: Dover, DE Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA)

Historical Information

The city of Dover was founded in 1683 by William Penn and became the capital of Delaware in 1777. Delaware was the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution in 1787. Historically, Kent County, DE has been primarily an agricultural community.

The Dover Air Force Base (AFB) was established in Dover on December 17, 1941. Today, the Dover AFB is home to the 436th Airlift Wing, known as the "Eagle Wing," and the 512th Airlift Wing, known as the "Liberty Wing." Dover AFB operates the largest and busiest air freight terminal in the Department of Defense and is also home to the Air Mobility Command Museum. (Additional information about the Dover AFB is available through the link below.)

Dover Downs opened in 1969 and offers horse-racing, a casino, and other entertainment. Dover Downs is co-located with the Dover International Speedway, which hosts NASCAR events.

Historical data for the Dover, DE MSA and the state of Delaware can be found at the following websites:

• City of Dover: About the City of Dover
• Delaware Public Archives: 100 Stories Online Exhibit
• Dover Air Force Base History
• State of Delaware (A Brief History)

• Last updated: Monday, October 29, 2007