Known as “The First State,” because it was the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, Delaware became official in 1776. We celebrate the second smallest state on National Delaware Day on July 13. Here are some fun facts, famous faces, and places to visit in the "Diamond State."

Delaware’s average altitude is about 60 feet above sea level, making it the lowest average altitude of any state, with Ebright Azimuth as one of the lowest high points in the country. The National Science Foundation found that Delaware has more doctoral-level (Ph.D.) scientists and engineers as a percentage of the population than any other state. Delaware also has a higher rate of patent awards, per person, than any other state.

Though Delaware is the only state in the country that does not have a national park, national monument, or national historic site, there’s still plenty to see there. Delaware boasts many beaches such as Rehoboth, Bethany, Lewes, and Dewey Beach, as well as 17 state parks. Built in 1698 and located in Wilmington, Old Swedes (Holy Trinity Church) is one of the oldest churches in America that is still in use today. If you're looking for more historical sites to visit, there's also Winterthur Museum, Garden & Gallery, Hagley Museum and Library, Nanticoke Indian Museum, Delaware's Old State House, Fort Delaware, and New Castle. The town of New Castle has the second-most historic structures of any community in the U.S., second only to Williamsburg, Virginia.

As for stars who were born in Delaware? Valerie Bertinelli, Ryan Phillippe, Jimmie Allen, Stephen Marley, and Doug Hutchison all hail from the state.

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