The Town of Laurel, DE, and the Nanticoke Indian Association recently held a traditional blessing ceremony and ribbon cutting for the newly developed Tidewater Park in downtown Laurel, DE. This event marked a significant milestone in efforts to enhance recreational spaces, advocate for Indigenous people’s history and promote environmental stewardship in western Sussex County, DE.
Play elements at Tidewater Park share stories of the origins of the Nanticoke Tribe, which include “How the Beaver Got Its Tail” and “Squirrel Council”. 
The “Rainbow Crow” legend is featured with an 18’ high multi-colored play piece that has a 32’ wingspan. 
Ed Lewandowski (center), a community development specialist at Delaware Sea Grant and project leader for Tidewater Park, along with Nanticoke tribal leaders Herman Jackson (left) and Mike Harmon 
Tom Carper, US Senator from Delaware, enjoying the 120’ zip line at Tidewater Park following the dedication ceremony.
The event commenced with a blessing of Earth Mother from Herman Jackson followed by a short prayer spoken in the Nanticoke language along with Rainbow Crow – a short truth story shared by traditional storyteller RagghiRain. Dr. Bonnie Hall, Chair of the Nanticoke Commemoration Committee, spoke with the blessings of Chief Avery Johnson and The Nanticoke Nation.
Highlights of Tidewater Park:
- Nature-based Play Area: A safe and fun active play space for children of all ages.
- Nanticoke Indian Stories: Play equipment featuring legends that share the origins of the Indigenous people of southern Delaware
- Green Infrastructure: An award-winning constructed wetland that treats stormwater runoff
- Picnic Facilities: A covered pavilion perfect for family gatherings and community events.
- A Riverwalk: A unique spot to observe local flora and fauna along the Broad Creek.
Avery Johnson, Chief of the Nanticoke Tribe, expressed, “The Nanticoke Nation takes great pride in Tidewater Park featuring Indigenous legends highlighting the origins of the First People of the First State. Wanishii (Thank you) to the Town of Laurel, Delaware Sea Grant of the University of Delaware, and RagghiRain for their dedication and contributions to creating this project. Tidewater Park is a testament to the true first Americans and honors the history of Indigenous peoples in Southern Delaware.”
Laurel Mayor John Shwed expressed his enthusiasm for the park’s opening, stating, “Tidewater Park is a testament to our commitment to providing beautiful, accessible green spaces for all residents and visitors. We look forward to seeing the community come together to celebrate this wonderful addition to our town.”
Ed Lewandowski, a community development specialist with Delaware Sea Grant at the University of Delaware and the project lead for the park said, “Tidewater Park is a wonderful spot for families and visitors to learn about Native American history while enjoying the natural beauty of the area. It is quickly becoming an anchor institution that is putting Laurel on the map as a unique tourist destination.”
About Tidewater Park
Tidewater Park is a unique and culturally rich destination. This one-of-a-kind, custom built, nature-based play area was constructed as part of a larger waterfront redevelopment plan called The Ramble. Led by Delaware Sea Grant and the Laurel Redevelopment Corporation, this effort aims to revitalize downtown Laurel and increase tourism by reconnecting the community to the Broad Creek and local parks.
Tidewater Park is designed to honor the Nanticoke Indian Tribe, the original inhabitants of the area. The name “Nanticoke” means “people of the tidewater” in Algonquian, reflecting their deep connection to the region. Tidewater Park features a playground that showcases the history and stories of the Nanticoke Tribe, with play elements inspired by traditional Native American legends, such as Turtle Island: The Story of Creation, Squirrel Council, How the Beaver Got its Tail and Rainbow Crow.
The Rainbow Crow story, for example, symbolizes selflessness and sacrifice. In the tale, Rainbow Crow volunteers to bring fire from the Creator to warm the Earth during a harsh winter. Despite the challenges and the personal cost—his beautiful feathers are scorched and his voice becomes hoarse—Rainbow Crow succeeds in his mission.
In addition to the playground, the park includes walking paths, green spaces, and a picnic pavilion. The area also features an award-winning, green infrastructure design that includes a constructed wetland to manage stormwater from the upland drainage area. The park is not only a place for recreation but also an educational experience, with interpretive panels that provide information about the Nanticoke stories represented in the play elements.
Major funding to support the development of Tidewater Park was secured through a congressionally directed spending request from US Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons, allocations provided by local state officials Sen. Bryant Richardson and Representative Tim Dukes as well as grant awards from the State of Delaware’s Outdoor Recreation, Parks and Trails program.
— By Ed Lewandowski, Delaware Sea Grant