RYVES-HOLT HOUSE - home of Naval hero Jacob Jones (Lewes, DE)

The Ryves Holt House in Lewes, Delaware, built between 1665 and 1686, is one of the 50 oldest buildings in the United States and the oldest house in Delaware still standing on its original foundation. Originally constructed by Quaker immigrants Philip and Sarah Russell as a tavern, it was later home to Jacob Jones, a War of 1812 naval hero who commanded the sloop-of-war Wasp and was beloved by his crew for his calm and judicious leadership. The house now serves as a museum dedicated to naval history, featuring artifacts including a model of the Wasp, an octant navigational tool, and a painting of the famous battle between the Wasp and the British frigate Frolic.