Delaware Searches for Descendants of Greenwood Burials
State officials are seeking the families of individuals found on a private property lot this September.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Historical
The Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is searching for descendants of three individuals discovered on September 16, 2026, near Greenwood. The skeletal remains, consisting of an adult male, an adult female, and a child, were unearthed during residential swimming pool excavation.
Why it matters
Identifying these individuals helps the state properly address historical burials that were previously unknown to current property owners. The effort connects present-day residents with the long-term history of their land.
The remains are estimated to have been buried between 1780 and 1900. Descendants or those with relevant information can contact the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs at 302-736-7400.
The players
Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs
This state agency is responsible for the protection and preservation of Delaware's history and cultural resources.
Roger Adams
He was a historical owner who acquired the Greenwood-area property in 1836.
Walton and Hilda Owens
This couple purchased the property where the remains were found in 1913.
The details
The discovery occurred on Hickman Road on property formerly owned by Roger Adams starting in 1836 and later by Walton and Hilda Owens in 1913. The state is currently working to manage the burial site following the accidental find during construction work.
Timeline
The burial timeframe is estimated to span from 1780 to 1900.
Roger Adams acquired the property in 1836.
Ownership transferred to Walton and Hilda Owens in 1913.
Skeletal remains were discovered on September 16, 2026.
The deadline for descendants to contact the state is December 11, 2026.
Culture Shift
This effort follows the regulatory frameworks established by Delaware's Unmarked Human Burials Act. The search marks a transition from accidental disruption to a systematic approach to identifying and honoring historical gravesites.
Property owners in the area should remain aware of state regulations regarding the discovery of historical remains during excavation. Residents with family ties to the Greenwood area land may contact the state agency to provide genealogical information.
The takeaway
The discovery underscores the importance of historical land records when performing major property excavations. Families with ancestors in the Greenwood area can assist the state by reviewing records to potentially identify the discovered remains.
What happens next
Descendants have until December 11, 2026, to contact the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs to discuss the findings.
Further reading
For additional context on state efforts, visit the Delaware Historical section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The News Journal.
