Frankford · History and events
Frankford, Delaware: history and events
History, lore, events and occasions in Frankford, Sussex County, Delaware: 11 questions answered from official and primary sources.
More about Frankford
Questions about history and events in Frankford
History and lore
When was Frankford founded and incorporated?
The town history says Frankford was founded in 1808 with Long's Store on Vine's Branch, owned by Isaiah Long. The Delaware Public Archives says the town was incorporated in 1883 and re-incorporated in 1903, 1937 and 1980. Source: frankford.delaware.gov, archives.delaware.gov.
How did Frankford get its name?
The place was known as Forest Flower, Partnership, Jacob's Mill Pond and Gum's Store before the name Frankford was documented around 1820. Most people were calling it the Town of Frankford by about 1848. The town history does not explain where the name came from. Source: frankford.delaware.gov.
What historic sites are in Frankford?
The National Park Service file for the Capt. Ebe Chandler House (reference 79000643) places it at Main and Reed Streets in Frankford and gives its dates as built 1880, renovated 1918. Source: npgallery.nps.gov.
Who were Frankford's sea captains?
The town history names sea captains John E. Harmon, Ebe T. Chandler, Robert Dasey and Joshua Townsend, and says three of their homes still stand. Source: frankford.delaware.gov.
How did transportation shape Frankford?
Vine's Branch Canal was the first major route, followed by roads and then the railroad, which brought prosperity and industry. In 1924 Coleman du Pont developed a highway running the length of Delaware. Source: frankford.delaware.gov.
What was Frankford known for in the railroad era?
Frankford became a railroad station stop on the line between Harrington and Snow Hill. The town history says the railroad helped residents prosper and build industry, and businesses shifted closer to the railroad end of town. Source: frankford.delaware.gov, archives.delaware.gov.
Events, holidays and occasions
When is the Frankford tree lighting?
Frankford holds a Park and Tree Lighting Ceremony at Frankford Town Park around the end of November. In 2025 it was Saturday, November 29, from 6 to 8 p.m. Source: coastalpoint.com.
What festivals are held in Frankford?
Southern Delaware Tourism lists the Alpaca Festival (September) and Grapetoberfest Weekend (October) in Frankford. Source: visitsoutherndelaware.com.
Is Frankford part of the Fire and Ice Festival?
Yes. Salted Vines Vineyard and Winery in Frankford hosted ice sculptures and a 900-pound ice drink luge on the Friday of the 2026 festival (January 30 to February 1). Source: selbyville.delaware.gov.
Where is the nearest farmers market to Frankford?
The Bethany Beach Farmers Market (Sundays, May 31 to September 6 in 2026) and the Millsboro Farmers Market (Saturdays, May 2 to September 26 in 2026) are the closest listed markets. Source: agriculture.delaware.gov.
Is Return Day a holiday in Frankford?
Return Day is a Sussex County legal holiday under Delaware Code Title 1, Section 501: the second day after the General Election, after 12:00 noon. It falls on the Thursday after Election Day in even-numbered years, and in 2026 that is November 5. The main celebration is held in Georgetown. Source: delcode.delaware.gov, visitsoutherndelaware.com, dagsboro.delaware.gov.
How these answers are sourced
Every answer on this page cites an official or primary source, such as the town, a state agency, NOAA or the institution itself. Answers SussexCounty.ai could not confirm from a primary source are left out until they can be.