Tag: DSGI

A Walk Through the History of Old New Castle

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Historic church and cemetery scene in Old New Castle with layered antique map details and the title "A Walk Through the History of Old New Castle."

One of the things I love most about our work with DSGI is that every investigation or new location has the potential to open a door, not just to reported experiences, but to the real history of the places we explore. And when it comes to Old New Castle, that history runs deep.

Our team historian and researcher extraordinaire, Nick Sandin, has put together an incredible document tracing the stories of some of Old New Castle’s most historic churches and cemeteries. What started as a research project became something far bigger: a blueprint for a rich, thoughtful look at the people, places, and events that helped shape this town.

What the Document Covers

Nick’s work highlights sites including Bethany UAME Church, Immanuel Episcopal Church, Mount Salem United Methodist Church, New Castle Presbyterian Church and Cemetery, St. Peter the Apostle Roman Catholic Church, and more. Along the way, he shines a light on veterans, community leaders, pastors, public servants, and everyday people whose lives became part of New Castle’s story. From United States Colored Troops (USCT) buried in local churchyards to governors, senators, and signers of foundational American documents, this research shows just how historically layered Old New Castle truly is.

More Than Names and Dates

What makes this collection so special is that it does more than list names and dates. It reminds us that history is personal. These churches and burial grounds are not just old landmarks. They are places tied to sacrifice, faith, service, loss, and community over generations.

That kind of context matters, especially for those of us who spend time documenting locations with care and curiosity.

Why I Wanted to Share It

I knew as soon as I read through Nick’s work that it was too good not to share with all of you. Whether you are interested in local Delaware history, genealogy, architecture, or simply the stories hidden in old places, there is something here worth exploring.

A Thank You to Nick

Nick put an incredible amount of time into compiling this material, and it absolutely deserves a wider audience. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did, and I hope it inspires you to look a little closer the next time you walk through Old New Castle.

Thank you, Nick, for preserving and sharing this history with such dedication.

Download our Old New Castle Cemetery/Church Research

Kicking Off Spooky Season

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Yesterday we met up as a team at the fabulous General Store in Rockwood. Coffee, laughter, and maps everywhere. It felt like the official turning of the key on spooky season. The air had that quiet September charge, the kind that makes an old floorboard think about speaking. Perfect.

spooky season fort delaware banner

Fort Delaware Is Calling

Fort Delaware Paranormal Adventure Tours are returning in less than a month. My boots are ready for Pea Patch Island, and so is my voice for telling you where not to step and to turn on your flashlight. Bring your curiosity, your courage, and your best listening ears. Do not wear stilettos, yes, that’s happened before. The Fort and its lingering inhabitants have many stories. We just help them talk.

A Secret Brewing

We are sitting on a special opportunity for our spooky-loving friends. We will announce it on social media next Sunday, September 14. Keep your eyes open. If your phone glitches right before the post, consider it a friendly nudge from the other side.

Helping a Local Family

A couple of our teammates discussed a recent walk-through with a family who reached out for help with unexplained experiences in their home. We focused on next steps, calm documentation, and keeping the household grounded. Compassion first, evidence second, fear as low as we can get it. That is how we have been trained to work: slow and steady, with the acknowledgement that nothing might happen when the family leaves the house and we go to investigate. That just means a repeat visit may be in order.

Adventures Beyond Delaware

We also kicked around ideas for investigations outside Delaware. History does not respect borders, and neither do hauntings. Members of our team are always scouting places with strong reports, good records, and night logistics that will not require a pact with a cranky vending machine. If you know a spot where the past still knocks after midnight, we are all ears.

New Faces, Same Heart

It was so good to see everyone. This meeting felt extra special because our five new teammates were with us. One joined by phone from overseas, which made me grin at the thought of DSGI becoming an international success. I kid. Kind of. What truly matters is the shared purpose. Curious minds, steady hands, and a healthy respect for the unknown.

The Sky Has Opinions

As I type, the sky is gloomy and the back deck is slick from a September rain. The looming blood moon lunar eclipse seems to be tugging at the edges of even our family pets. Something wicked this way comes. Luckily, our team has the chops to handle it. I believe we can do anything when we stick together.

See You on the Island

We investigate all year round, but there is something special about this season. The nights lean in. The stories feel closer. I hope to see you next month on Pea Patch Island for the Fort Delaware tours.

Be there, if you dare.

Click here for Paranormal Adventure Tour Tickets