Del. Students To Reenact Historic Debate In Mock Continental Congress At Legislative Hall

The mock Continental Congress debate will take place the first week of June. (Photo by clu/iStock Getty Images)

On June 6, 50 middle and high school students from across Delaware will step into the roles of 18th-century delegates during a Mock Continental Congress at Legislative Hall in Dover.

The event, inspired by the historic Second Continental Congress of 1776, aims to immerse students in the political debates that shaped American independence.

The day-long simulation is being organized by Delaware 250, the state’s official commemoration of the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026.

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Students were nominated by their teachers to participate in the event, which is designed to encourage civic engagement and historical understanding.

“This experience will help students engage with historical thinking and civic engagement,” said Margaret Hughes, director of Delaware 250. “In the summer of 1776, separation from Great Britain wasn’t a foregone conclusion.”

By putting themselves in the shoes of the members of the Second Continental Congress, students will be able not only to imagine, but to actively participate in history, civil dialogue, parliamentary procedure, and the complex questions around independence, she said.

Participants will deliberate in Legislative Hall, the heart of Delaware’s state government, adding to the authenticity of the event.

Nicole Worthley, Superintendent of First State Heritage Park, emphasized the significance of the location.

“We are delighted to welcome students into the historic setting of Legislative Hall in Dover,” she said. “The idea of First State Heritage Park is that it is an ‘urban park without boundaries,’ so we are excited to get middle and high school students not only learning about history but engaging with this significant space.”

The event is a collaborative effort between Delaware 250, the Delaware Historical Society, First State Heritage Park, and the Delaware Center for Civics Education at the University of Delaware.

The day will also feature talks by noted historians Dr. Richard Bell of the University of Maryland and Dr. Emily Sneff, an expert on the Declaration of Independence.

The Mock Continental Congress will run from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Friday, June 6.