Sussex County in lower Delaware is home to Rehoboth Beach, often referred to as the nation’s summer capitol. When one ventures inland just a few defining miles, the tenor changes significantly, from the hustle and bustle of the Delaware and Maryland beaches, to peaceful countryside dotted with small towns and hamlets. Stretching along the south side of the Indian River are a string of communities with such names as Millsboro, Dagsboro, Clarksville, Oak Orchard, Ocean View and Millville. There, life moves at its own determined pace.

The largest of these tranquil towns, Millsboro, is situated near the start of the Indian River. It’s a quiet little community that’s the perfect blend of history and modernity. The town dates its founding to 1792 when Elisha Dickerson harnessed the river to drive his saw and grist mills. Soon the surrounding environs were robust with industry, including a tannery, light manufacturing, and an iron furnace and foundry. In spite of these new industries, Millsboro remained largely an agrarian community. Thanks to the town’s central location, it eventually became a major railroad stopover and by the end of the Nineteenth Century two large wood mills were supplying the growing nation’s need for lumber. By the 1930s, chicken farming became a major industry: today banking and its various subsidiaries have joined the mix.

At the other extreme, where the river is now a bay, sits Millville, a small town of 206. It sits on Route 26, just three miles inland from Bethany Beach.

The Indian River Bay area is truly a nature lover’s paradise. One can spend the day fishing for bass, canoeing placid waters, or watching bald eagles soaring through azure skies. With so many unspoiled parks and reserves nearby, there is endless adventure to be had for the whole family. One of the most noteworthy is the legendary Great Cypress Swamp.

Swim. Sit in the sand and sun. Walk the boardwalk and play the arcades! It’s easy since all of the Delaware and Maryland beaches are close by, as are many outlet stores, fine restaurants and entertainment centers. It is also a golfer’s delight with numerous challenging courses on which to hone one’s game.

When you want a break from noise and congestion, come discover life along the Indian River.

City of Millville

City of Millsboro