Jason Beach
A Gathering Place for Generations
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.
Read a full historical report on Jason Beach
To view the interpretive signage that is at Jason Beach click on the links below.
Why is it Called Jason Beach?
The beach is named for Dr. William C. Jason, the second and longest-serving president of Delaware State University at 28 years (1895-1923). His longevity and leadership provided much-needed stability at a time when the then-State College for Colored Students did not receive adequate state funding.
In recent decades, the area has been known as Cypress Point. In 2022, Governor John Carney formally renamed the site Jason Beach, in recognition of its historic significance.
The former African-American school in Sussex County was also named for Dr. Jason. The school is now the site of the Delaware Tech Owens Campus in Georgetown.
Community Stories
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.
Jonathan Kellam
A welcoming place
An Inclusive History
Comparing Two Worlds
Are They Having Fun Too?
Family Time
Keeping the Tradition Alive
Howard West
A Community Center
Meeting Friends New and Old
Religious Services
Baptisms at Jason Beach
A Different Era
Dealing with Segregation and Discrimination
Carl Stanley
Getting There
Traveling on Jason Beach Road
Put a Nickel In
Listening to the Jukebox
Virginia Sneed
Visiting Jason Beach
Going to the Beach with Church and Family
A Typical Day
A Typical Day at Jason Beach
Church Time
Local Religious Ties to Jason Beach
Bringing Communities Together
A Gathering Place for Everyone
Paul Selby
Early Days
Childhood Days at Jason Beach
Jukebox Memories
Music and Dancing for Everyone
Race Relations in Southern Delaware
A Local Recollection of Discrimination
Great Memories
Holiday Gatherings at Jason Beach