Georgetown, DE

Demonstrating Democracy

Burying the hatchet in Georgetown, Del., is more than just an expression—it’s an affirmation. Every two years, the residents of this town of 4,643 carry out this symbolic act which—among other things—demonstrates why democracy works.

Georgetown, the county seat of Sussex County, is the only town in the nation that still celebrates “Return Day.” Observed on the Thursday following election day, every other year, the county’s election results are announced, race by race, from the courthouse balcony above the town’s historic circle. Held for nearly 200 years, the event marks the conclusion of the political season and the reconciliation of opposing parties. That it occurs in Sussex County is no surprise to those who live here—politics is in their blood.

W. Layton Johnson, the town’s mayor for 26 years and current town crier for Return Day, says, “It’s hard to believe that something like this can still take place, but this celebration means everything to the people of Georgetown.” He adds with a grin, “I only announce the Sussex County voting results. After all, they’re the only ones that count.”

Return Day got its name because state law once required that all votes be cast in the county seat. After voting, many would return to town two days later in carts drawn by oxen or horses and decorated with flags, ribbons, and sleigh bells, to learn the results. Vendors sold such items as possum, rabbit, hot cornpone, fish, oysters, fresh cider, and applejack, and many recall husbands purchasing their wives cakes that day to celebrate election returns. Voting districts were established in 1828, but votes were still counted at the county seat, continuing the tradition.

The festivities begin on the night before Return Day when residents roast an ox on the town’s circle for next-day’s sandwiches. The evening’s entertainment includes food, drink, and dancing. Each Return Day begins with a candidate’s luncheon, followed by a two-hour parade boasting school bands, patriotic floats, marching units, and costumed characters. A unique feature of the parade—winning and losing candidates riding together in carriages, carts, or in convertible automobiles—signifies a reunification of purpose.

Nearly 40,000 county and state residents, and even out-of-state visitors, join the celebration. Following the parade, speeches are given and the election results read from the balcony of the courthouse (circa 1839) by the town crier, sporting the event’s customary top hat. The ceremony concludes when the leaders of the county’s two major political parties bury a symbolic tomahawk in a wooden box filled with sand from Lewes, the county seat prior to Georgetown being passed the honor in 1791.

According to Rosalie B. Walls, president of Return Day and, for 30 years, one of the event’s organizers, “It’s the healing process that occurs here that is so unique. We show people they can bury the hatchet from their campaign differences and still work together to make a better county, state, and nation.”

Georgetown, which became the county’s seat for its central location, is often referred to as the town that’s “16 miles from anywhere,” a description befitting its isolation from communication and trade years ago. Since then, it’s become a financial and governmental center, as well as a growing processing center for the poultry industry. This agriculturally based community also prides itself on its nearby world-class beaches, its special hospitality, and its appreciation of the past.

The town’s 24 historic buildings, as well as its historic observances, re-enactments, and antique shops draw growing numbers of visitors annually to enjoy a bit of Delaware history. Among the favorite historic sites in Georgetown, near the circle, are the Old Sussex County Courthouse (c. 1791); the Brick Hotel (c. 1836); the new Courthouse (c. 1837), designed by renowned architect William Strickland; and the Nutter D. Marvel Museum, which includes a collection of historic buildings, as well as horse-drawn carriages used in the Return Day parade.

It’s a grand day, and Georgetown does it up grandly, illustrating one of our country’s fundamental principles—following elections, however hotly contested, we bury the hatchet and carry on for the betterment of all.

Amy Blades Steward, a freelance writer in Easton, Md., writes regularly for American Profile.

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