Sussex County

Sussex County is an administrative division in Delaware that stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to watershed areas, combining coastal regions, farmland, and residential neighborhoods across roughly 1,200 square miles (3,100 square kilometers). The landscape transitions from beaches and marshes inland to agricultural areas and communities of various sizes.

Dutch settlers founded the first European settlement near present-day Lewes in 1631, calling it Zwaanendael. English colonists later formalized this area as an organized county in 1683.

Agriculture remains deeply woven into daily life here, particularly poultry farming, which connects to local markets and community celebrations throughout the year. This working landscape coexists with coastal tourism and residential growth that shape how people spend their time and gather together.

Georgetown functions as the county seat and main hub for government services, records, and administrative information serving the entire region. This central location makes it a useful reference point for understanding how the county operates and for accessing official services.

This region became one of the largest poultry production centers in the United States, shaping the economy of the entire northeastern Atlantic coast. The industry remains so integral to local identity that it continues to influence regional markets and business connections today.

Location: Delaware

Inception: 1683

Capital city: Georgetown

Shares border with: Dorchester County, Worcester County, Kent County, Wicomico County, Caroline County

Website: http://sussexcountyde.gov

GPS coordinates: 38.68000,-75.34000

Latest update: December 15, 2025 13:21