Bethel Delaware

Bethel, Delaware: A Historic Maritime Gem in Our Service Area, Served with Dedication by The Sharma Law Firm

Welcome to Bethel, Delaware, a charming town nestled in Sussex County. With a rich history rooted in shipbuilding and trading, Bethel is a community that holds a unique place in Delaware's heritage. The Sharma Law Firm, your trusted personal injury attorney in Seaford, DE, is honored to serve the residents of Bethel and its neighboring areas.

A Glimpse into Bethel's Maritime History

Bethel's history is deeply intertwined with its maritime heritage. It was a thriving shipbuilding and trading community during the 19th century. Skilled ship carpenters in Bethel constructed wooden sailing vessels, including the renowned Chesapeake sailing rams, well into the early 20th century. These rams were designed to be economical, flat-bottomed, three-masted schooners, ideal for coastal freight primarily on the Chesapeake Bay.

The shipbuilding industry in Bethel flourished thanks to the abundant supply of virgin pine, oak, and cypress from the nearby Nanticoke forests. In 1869, Jonathan Moore established the Marine Railway Company, which played a pivotal role in the construction of the Chesapeake sailing rams. These vessels were cost-effective and required only a small crew to operate. Bethel became a hub for shipbuilding, and between 1871 and 1918, as many as thirty rams were built in the town's shipyards.

From Lewis' Wharf to Bethel

Bethel's history is also reflected in its name changes over the years. The town was originally known as Lewis' Wharf and Lewisville. The site was part of a 500-acre grant from the province of Maryland to James Caldwell in 1728. Continuous boundary disputes between Maryland and the Penn family hampered settlement in the area. In 1795, Kendal Major Lewis, the founder of Bethel, acquired a significant portion of James Caldwell's original grant, as well as a smaller tract on Broad Creek, known as Mitchell's Harbor. He established a landing that evolved into a prosperous trading center.

By the 1840s, Lewis' Wharf had grown into a thriving community known as Lewisville. Over the next two decades, it became a significant shipbuilding center. The town's extensive forests provided ample resources for ship construction.

In 1880, when Bethel applied for a post office, its name was changed to Bethel to avoid confusion with another Lewisville, Delaware, which already had a post office.

Geography and Demographics

Bethel is located at 38°34′14″N latitude and 75°37′10″W longitude. The town covers a total area of 0.4 square miles, with all of it being land.

As of the 2020 Census, Bethel is home to 239 residents. The town's demographics reflect a diverse community, with a mixture of White, African American, and Asian residents. The median household income in Bethel is $34,107, and the median family income is $58,750.

Your Trusted Legal Partner in Bethel

The Sharma Law Firm is dedicated to serving the residents of Bethel and ensuring that their legal needs are met. Whether you've been involved in an accident, require legal advice, or have questions regarding personal injury claims, our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way.

Bethel, Delaware, is a town steeped in maritime history, and its shipbuilding legacy is an integral part of the community's identity. The Sharma Law Firm is honored to serve the residents of Bethel and the surrounding areas, offering legal expertise and guidance to our cherished community.

Whether you're a long-time resident or new to the area, we extend our warmest welcome to you. If you find yourself in need of legal assistance in personal injury cases or any other legal matters in Bethel, please do not hesitate to contact The Sharma Law Firm. We are here to ensure your rights are protected and your interests are upheld in this historic corner of Sussex County.