Kent County, Delaware

Seal of Kent County Delaware 1683

NEW KENT COUNTY COURTHOUSE, DOVER, DELAWARE

Bombay Hook NWR wetlands

2022-07-18 11 42 42 View north along Delaware State Route 1 (Korean War Veterans Memorial Highway) from the overpass for Smyrna-Leipsic Road in Smyrna, Kent County, Delaware

Dover Delaware

Kent County, Delaware is one of the three counties in the U.S. state of Delaware. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 180,786. The county seat is Dover, which is also the state capital of Delaware. Kent County is named after the English county of Kent.

History

Kent County has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1683 as one of Delaware's original counties. It played a significant role during the American Revolution, with the Battle of Camden and the Battle of Dover occurring within its borders. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, agriculture was the dominant industry, with the county's fertile lands producing abundant crops.

Geography

Kent County is located in the central part of Delaware and covers an area of 798 square miles, making it the least extensive county in the state. It is bordered by New Castle County to the north, Sussex County to the south, the state of Maryland to the west, and the Delaware Bay to the east. The county features a mix of rural and urban landscapes, with the central and southern parts being predominantly agricultural.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Kent County had a population of 180,786. The demographic makeup of the county has been diversifying, with a significant increase in the Hispanic and African American populations. The economy of Kent County is diverse, with sectors such as government, education, healthcare, and manufacturing playing significant roles.

Economy

The economy of Kent County is diverse, with the government sector being a major employer due to the presence of the state capital, Dover. The Dover Air Force Base is another significant contributor to the local economy. Agriculture remains an important industry, with poultry farming, soybeans, and corn being the primary crops. The county has also seen growth in the manufacturing, healthcare, and education sectors.

Education

Kent County is home to several higher education institutions, including Delaware State University and Wesley College. The county also has a variety of public and private schools offering K-12 education.

Culture and Recreation

Kent County offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities. The Dover International Speedway hosts NASCAR events, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The Delaware State Fair in Harrington is a popular annual event featuring concerts, agricultural exhibits, and carnival rides. The county also boasts numerous parks, museums, and historical sites, providing residents and visitors with opportunities to explore its rich history and natural beauty.

Government

The government of Kent County is comprised of an elected county levy court, which functions similarly to a county council in other states. The levy court is responsible for legislative and administrative functions, including budgeting, land use planning, and public services.

Transportation

Kent County is served by several major highways, including U.S. Route 13 and State Route 1, providing easy access to other parts of Delaware and neighboring states. The Dover Air Force Base offers military and some civilian air services, while the nearby Wilmington Airport in New Castle County provides additional commercial flight options.