For generations, the local Black community made memories at Jason Beach, located in Trap Pond State Park. Locals fondly remember gathering there to socialize, dance, picnic, and attend church services and baptisms.
While there was no segregation required by law in Delaware's state park system during the 1950s and 1960s, numerous press accounts and interviews indicate Trap Pond’s beach areas were segregated. Jason Beach was for Black visitors; Headquarters Beach (across the pond) was for white visitors.
To access a full historical report on Jason Beach click here.
To view the interpretive signage that is at Jason Beach click on the links below.
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In the interview clips below, community members reflect on their experiences at Jason Beach. Delaware State Parks thanks them for sharing their memories for this project.
Interviews were conducted by Delaware State Parks Volunteer, Helen Elliott and Manager of Cultural Resources, Tom Summers in 2021.
To share your memories of Jason Beach, visit our Community Histories page.
An Inclusive History
Are They Having Fun Too?
Keeping the Tradition Alive
Meeting Friends New and Old
Baptisms at Jason Beach
Dealing with Segregation and Discrimination
Traveling on Jason Beach Road
Listening to the Jukebox
Going to the Beach with Church and Family
A Typical Day at Jason Beach
Local Religious Ties to Jason Beach
A Gathering Place for Everyone
Childhood Days at Jason Beach
Music and Dancing for Everyone
A Local Recollection of Discrimination
Holiday Gatherings at Jason Beach
Jason Beach, Trap Pond State Park, Laurel, DE