Internship projects have a way of evolving. Since I last blogged, the focus of my tour has switched from one that highlights Wilmington's memorials and monuments to one that explains the city's economic and industrial development. We decided that this tour will dovetail nicely with the Forum's Delaware Industrial History Initiative. The DIHI is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities' We the People program, which exists to enhance the understanding of American history, culture, and democratic principles among all citizens. The goal of the DIHI is to digitally document Delawareans' experiences with industrialization. To explore a DIHI project that is already up and running online, visit Delaware's Industrial Brandywine, a database by Hagley Museum and Library that documents the businesses that operated along the Brandywine River in Delaware.
This week, in addition to reading more about the city's history and looking into podcasting and website building options, I have met with representatives of several Wilmington organizations to discuss opportunities for heritage tourism. The good news is that there are a lot of people doing great things in an effort to revitalize the downtown area. The challenge is to make sure that these efforts compliment, rather than duplicate or compete with, what others are doing. Communication is key.
If you're looking for something to do this weekend, I would suggest taking a walk along the Christina River. Once the heart of Wilmington's shipbuilding industry, the riverfront is now home to restaurants and other attractions. Remnants of the area's past remain, however, in the form of repurposed warehouses and brightly painted cranes. As you stroll along, make sure you read the signs that describe the industries that once stood along the river.
For those of you who aren't familiar with Wilmington, here's a view of the city from my office window. From left to right you can see Market Street, Shipley Street, and Orange Street. I added a yellow arrow to help you find the Christina (which looks larger in person, of course). 
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