Delaware Township's recorded history began about 1766, making it the oldest of Pike County's townships. It receives its name from its only natural border, the Delaware River. Many of its bordering townships were once all or part of Delaware Township. In 1829, Delaware Township gave birth to Lehman Township; and in 1851, part of Delaware Township became Porter Township. Andreas Dingman's Ferry Dutch settlers had been utilizing the fertile lands on both sides of the river since 1682. In 1735, an adventurous young man, Andreas Dingman, selected the rich river bottom land of Pennsylvania. His site become known as Dingman's Choice. Andreas Dingman built a flat boat to cross the Delaware River to his land. Later, he operated a ferry, charging others a small fee to cross the river. By 1834, this ferry gave way to the Dingman's Bridge, and was chartered for both Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Still in operation, the bridge is run by the descendants of Andreas Dingman. It is the one of a few privately owned and operated bridges in the United States. The Ferry House, which stands beside the bridge, was built in 1803 by Judge Daniel Dingman, and is the oldest building in Dingmans Ferry. In 1979, both the bridge and its Ferry House became classified as Pike County Historical Sites. 1899 Construction of Dingman's Ferry Bridge Dingman's Choice, which originated as one young man's dream, gradually became known as The Village of Dingman's Ferry. Since 1776, or for 200 years, the village was the heart of Delaware Township. Families lived amid the mills, hotels, restaurants, grocery shops, beauty shop, laundry, garages, school, fire and telephone companies, and three churches. Just as today, baseball, fishing, and hunting were favorite pastimes in the area. Beyond everyday life and trials, townspeople gathered for carnivals and other festivities, solidifying the community. Old Oak Bucket Mill, Dingmans Ferry United Methodist Church, Old Dingmans Road Main Street, Dingmans Ferry In 1955, two hurricanes hit the region within one week's time, causing a freak flood in the area. With flood waters quickly rising, bridges became impassable. Albright's Store and Corner, Downtown Dingmans Ferry In the aftermath, one hundred had perished, and millions of dollars in damage resulted. Thus, the Tocks Island Dam project was born, to prevent any future flooding. The Village, to be included in the stretch to be flooded and dammed would, after 200 years, cease to exist. The government cited Eminent Domain, and Congress authorized the project. The entire village was wiped out, in preparation of a dam that would never exist; the property eventually becoming Federal park land. For further information about Delaware Township, please visit Dingmans Ferry - Delaware Township Historical Society.

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