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Wikipedia

Pagan Creek Dike

The Pagan Creek Dike offers a glimpse into the ingenuity and perseverance of early American settlers. This unassuming, 700-foot-long causeway, built in the mid-17th century, stands as a testament to Dutch engineering and resourcefulness. For those who love early American history, the Pagan Creek Dike promises an interesting experience.

Step back in time and imagine the industrious spirit of the Dutch West India Company settlers. Built primarily from clay, loam, sand, and timbers, the dike served a critical purpose. It provided crucial access to the rich natural resources of Pagan Creek, a vital waterway for transportation and commerce. Learn about the challenges these early settlers faced as they carved a life out of the wilderness. Though more properly classified as a "causeway" due to its dual function of enabling passage and controlling water flow, the term "dike" has stuck throughout history, adding to the unique character of this landmark.

Though centuries have passed, the Pagan Creek Dike continues to hold its own against the elements. While sections have succumbed to time and the ever-changing landscape, parts of the structure still rise a couple of feet above the surrounding marsh. For the more adventurous, a trip during low tide reveals the submerged timbers, offering a tangible connection to the past. However, it's important to remember that the entire area rests on private property, so respectful observation from the banks is key.

Wikipedia
Wikipedia

A 52 Weeks of Fun Fascinating Fact about Pagan Creek Dike

Dating to the mid to late 17th century, the Pagan Creek Dike is one of the oldest surviving road structures in Delaware. It was built by the Dutch settlers to connect the Dutch West India Company fort with the hinterland beyond Pagan Creek.

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Wikipedia

The dike was formally recognized and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 due to its historical and engineering significance.
Cape Gazette

The Pagan Creek Dike is located on the north bank of Canary Creek, just west of New Road in Lewes, and was constructed using clay and loam piled atop a sand footing, which rests on marsh mud.
SAH Archepedia Matthew Aungst

The Pagan Creek Dike is a historic causeway constructed around 1660 by Dutch settlers and is one of the oldest dikes in the United States.
Delaware Department of Transportation

Pagan Creek Dike is one of the oldest dikes in the United States and was built to facilitate trade and travel across the marshy areas behind the settlers' riverfront habitations.

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