New Castle featured in The Washington Post

The beautiful and historic town of New Castle (also the home of Oak Knoll) was featured yesterday in the travel section of The Washington Post’s online news. Audrey Hoffer, a freelance writer in Washington, wrote an article about the buildings, scenery, smells, and homes all located in the small town of New Castle. As Hoffer’s day in the town was ending, a trip to Oak Knoll was in order to check out our selection of books and revel in the grandeur of our building that was once an Opera House.

“I’m suffused with a sudden sense of pride and nostalgia. I’d come to New Castle looking for a taste of pure Americana. And sure enough, I’d found it.”–A.H.

Click here to read the article.

An overwhelming turnout for the book signing of New Castle, Delaware

“Wow!” That’s about all I can say about the turnout of last night’s book signing of New Castle, Delaware: A Walk Through Time. Held at the New Castle Public Library from 6pm to 8pm, the doors barely had time to close as people continued to file in to have their new books signed. Written by Delaware authors Barbara E. Benson and Carol E. Hoffecker, the book covered the entire history of the town of New Castle, revealing much about its neighborhoods and rich architecture. As New Castle is home to many, local residents were thrilled to be able to have a signed copy. The authors’ passion for New Castle and for their new book was especially evident last night as they both took time to personally inscribe copies and briefly chat with each person in line.

While the room was filled with excitement and chatter over the new book, Laura and I were in charge of selling copies of the book near the entrance to the library. We were so busy selling books that we didn’t have time to take too many pictures, but we were still very excited to see the enthusiasm reflecting in people’s faces as they entered in line to have the book signed. Many positive comments were made about the book, and some people even bought multiple copies to give to their friends, neighbors, and relatives. From someone on the production and marketing side of the business, it’s always a joy to know that the books you produce are important to people and are something they will cherish for a long time. With cookies, chips, fruit, cheese and crackers, and sparkling cider as light snacks topping off the evening, I think a good time was had by everyone there. If you didn’t get a chance to make it out last night, but are still interested in learning more about the book, visit our website at www.oakknoll.com/newcastle, and thank you to all those who came out to support such a great book!

-Danielle

Book signing of New Castle, Delaware: A Walk Through Time

This Wednesday, December 14, from 6pm to 8pm, Oak Knoll and the New Castle Historical Society will hold a book signing of the new publication New Castle, Delaware: A Walk Through Time. Held at the New Castle Public Library at 424 Delaware Street, the book will be available for purchase as the authors sign copies. Light refreshments will be served, and brief remarks will be made by the authors.

Written by well-known Delaware authors Barbara E. Benson and Carol E. Hoffecker, the new book traces the entire history of New Castle, Delaware from its seventeenth-century settlement to today. It studies the city’s development, its current neighborhoods, and its historic architecture. The book is generously illustrated with maps, drawings, and photographs.

The authors have worked together on several projects in Delaware history. Current chair of the New Castle County Historic Review Board, Barbara Benson was also executive director of the Delaware Historical Society until 2003, overseeing its collection, exhibitions, education, and programs. Carol Hoffecker taught at the University of Delaware until 2003 and has written books and articles about Delaware and two volumes on the history of the city of Wilmington.

Click here for more information on the book, and we hope to see you at the signing on Wednesday!

Pictures of the New Castle Exhibition!

Check out pictures of our new exhibition on the historic town of New Castle. All publications in the exhibition are available to view and purchase.

Click here to see a list of all books in the exhibition.