Rehoboth Beach, a popular tourist destination in Delaware, got its name from the Bible. The name “Rehoboth” is derived from the Hebrew word “Rehoboth,” which means “broad places” or “wide spaces.” This name was chosen by the founders of the city, who were primarily Methodists, due to its biblical significance and the natural beauty of the nearby Rehoboth Bay.
What is the Historical Background of the Name Rehoboth Beach?
In the 17th century, English explorers named the nearby Rehoboth Bay after the biblical reference in Genesis 26:22, where Isaac names a well “Rehoboth” because “the Lord has made room for us, and we will be fruitful in the land”. This name was later adopted by the founders of the city, who were inspired by the biblical story and the natural beauty of the area.
How Was Rehoboth Beach Founded and Developed?
Rehoboth Beach was founded in 1873 as the Rehoboth Beach Camp Meeting Association by Reverend Robert W. Todd, a Methodist minister from Wilmington, Delaware. The association aimed to create a seaside resort for religious gatherings and retreats, similar to those found on the New Jersey shore. The city’s original name was Cape Henlopen City, but it was later changed to Rehoboth Beach in 1893.
Key Facts About the Name Rehoboth Beach
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Name Origin | The name “Rehoboth” comes from the Hebrew word for “broad places” or “wide spaces,” inspired by the biblical story of Isaac naming a well “Rehoboth” in Genesis 26:22. |
| Founding | Rehoboth Beach was founded in 1873 as the Rehoboth Beach Camp Meeting Association by Reverend Robert W. Todd. |
| Original Name | The city was initially named Cape Henlopen City but was later renamed Rehoboth Beach in 1893. |