The Read House and Gardens was built by the Delaware signers of the Declaration of Independence in 1801.

The 22-room structure sitting on 14,000 square feet of land was the largest residence in Delaware during the time it was built. Its cost amounted to $12,000. Boasting of grandiose and spacious family bedrooms, it also incorporates new technology as its kitchen uses hot-air roasting ovens and steam tables.

The garden of the Read House was added in 1847 by William Cooper, the second owner. After 150 years, its garden is among the oldest and surviving in its region. It was even featured in the House and Garden Magazine in November 1901.

In the 1920?s, its rooms were preserved and re-decorated by the Laird family. In 1991, its continuous restoration began, making it one of the best house museums of the nation.