The Delmarva Region
The Delmarva Peninsula, also known as the Eastern Shore, embraces the state of Delaware and the Eastern Shore counties of Maryland and Virginia. Bounded on the west by the Chesapeake Bay and on the east by the Atlantic Ocean, it comprises a distinct geographical region. The peninsula has been inhabited by Native Americans for thousands of years and was one of the first places in North America colonized by European and enslaved African immigrants.
Although predominantly rural, its landscape also supports numerous urban and suburban pockets. Its diverse economy includes agricultural, maritime, lumbering, tourism, and industrial sectors. Its distinct borders, long history, rich ethnic mix, and diverse economy along with an abundance of primary materials make the Delmarva Peninsula an inviting subject for historical research. Delmarva is one of the earliest sites of European settlement. The primary sources that record that history make it a must-see for family history researchers.