An Icon Made Modern
Stepping inside the HOTEL DU PONT is akin to traversing through time, where the past, present, and future converge. Nestled at the intersection of 11th and Market in downtown Wilmington, this internationally renowned establishment stands as a timeless beacon of hospitality and elegance. Today, it invites a new generation of travelers to experience its unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Gilded Age Style
Originally constructed in 1913 as an extension of the DuPont Company headquarters, HOTEL DU PONT is a stunning example of Italian Renaissance design. Designed to reflect the international prestige of the chemical giant, it was Wilmington’s first million-dollar hotel. The hotel’s architecture transports guests back to the Gilded Age, an era characterized by unmatched elegance and style.
History
Upon its opening, the hotel quickly gained international acclaim, rivaling the finest establishments in New York and Europe. It became a central hub for Wilmington’s business and social scenes. The property’s expansion in 1918 introduced additional guestrooms and the grand Ballroom Suite, which includes the Du Barry Room and the Gold Ballroom. Over its century-long history, HOTEL DU PONT has undergone thoughtful renovations to meet modern preferences while remaining true to its storied past.
Grand Architecture
HOTEL DU PONT epitomizes grandeur with breathtaking architecture and interiors. Guests are enveloped in vintage splendor with imported European chandeliers, hand-carved wood details, and sweeping staircases. This twelve-story Italian Renaissance masterpiece was completed after a two-and-a-half-year construction process involving meticulous work by French and Italian artisans. From the opulent lobby to the shimmering majesty of the Gold Ballroom, every detail reflects extraordinary craftsmanship.
Built for Business
As Wilmington emerged as a corporate hub at the turn of the 20th century, demands for hotel accommodations surged. Commissioned by Pierre S. du Pont, the hotel was envisioned to match the prestige of his chemical empire. For over a century, HOTEL DU PONT has remained a landmark destination for business travelers and a central figure in the Wilmington community.
Pièce de Résistance
The Gold Ballroom, part of the 1918 expansion, is a testament to craftsmanship and artistry. Influenced by the women’s suffrage movement, this room features twenty bas-relief medallions depicting influential women such as Cleopatra and Pocahontas. The intricate designs are executed in sgraffito—a technique involving hand-cut designs into multiple layers of colored plaster—showcasing a nearly lost art form while honoring women’s contributions throughout history.
Legacy of Love
The hotel is also steeped in romance; it was here that Prince Rainier III of Monaco met with Father Tucker, who played a pivotal role in orchestrating his introduction to Grace Kelly. To commemorate this historic moment, a table in the Green Room restaurant has been designated as the “Grace Kelly” table. Miss Kelly’s acceptance marked her transition from an Oscar-winning actress to Her Serene Highness Princess Grace of Monaco.
Presidential Treatment
Throughout its illustrious 110-year history, HOTEL DU PONT has welcomed nearly a dozen U.S. presidents including William H. Taft and John F. Kennedy Jr. Notably, Wilmington gained national prominence as the hometown of President Joseph R. Biden, who launched his first senatorial campaign in the Gold Ballroom foyer in 1972.
The Guestbook
The hotel’s guestbook reads like a who’s who of history, having hosted politicians, dignitaries, corporate giants, professional athletes, and celebrities alike. Notable guests include Charles Lindbergh, Amelia Earhart, Elizabeth Taylor, Meryl Streep, and many more who have walked through its storied halls. In conclusion, HOTEL DU PONT stands not only as a luxurious accommodation but also as a living museum that encapsulates over a century of history and elegance. Its blend of modern amenities with rich tradition makes it a must-visit destination for anyone wishing to experience Wilmington’s cultural heritage firsthand.
