Marian Coffin Gardens at Gibraltar

The Marian Coffin Gardens at Gibraltar is a restored estate landscape in Wilmington featuring geometric terraces linked by marble staircases across six acres. Ornamental fountains, sculptures, and seasonal flowers create varied scenes throughout the grounds.

The gardens were developed between 1916 and 1923 as part of Hugh Rodney Sharp's estate. After Sharp's death in 1968, the grounds fell into decline for decades before major restoration work took place in the 1990s.

Marian Cruger Coffin, one of America's first professional female landscape architects, designed these gardens blending Italian and English garden traditions. Visitors walk through spaces that show how her creative vision shaped every path, terrace, and planted area.

The site is located on Greenhill Avenue in Wilmington and remains open daily from dawn to dusk without entrance fees. Wear comfortable shoes as you will navigate hills and multiple staircases throughout your visit.

The mansion was named Gibraltar because its granite structure sits on a rocky outcrop resembling the famous Rock of Gibraltar. This unexpected name for a Delaware property reflects how the natural terrain influenced the property's identity.

Location: Wilmington

GPS coordinates: 39.76109,-75.57440

Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:05