One of the most fascinating places in Delaware is the historic town of Odessa, where there are over 80 buildings preserved in a National Historic District. The town itself dates back to the 1700s, when it was an important port town on the Appoquinimink Creek. At that time, it was known as Cantwell’s Bridge. By the time the railroad made its way through the state, bypassing Cantwell’s Bridge for the more centrally located Middletown, residents were feeling the effect of reduced ship travel. In an effort to revive their town, they renamed it Odessa, hoping to bring to mind the majestic Ukranian port city.

Though it is no longer a logistics hub, the well preserved historic district is worth a day trip, no matter how far you may have to travel.

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To learn more about the history of Cantwell’s Bridge and how it became Odessa, read This Old Port Town In Delaware Has A Fascinating History. If you want to learn more about Cantwell’s Tavern, check out The Timeless Delaware Restaurant Everyone Needs To Visit At Least Once.

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