GEORGETOWN, Del.- Concerns are being raised from residents in Georgetown over a confederate flag flying at the Marvel Carriage Museum.
Delaware’s Division of Historical and Public Affairs took down a whipping post at the old Sussex county courthouse in June. Recently, there have been calls for the confederate flag at the Marvel Carriage Museum to be moved inside.
"I think it’s a symbol of white supremacy and a sign of racism," one resident said. "Every time I pass by this museum as they call it. I just get this pit in my stomach. I thought we were so much better than that and so far along."
A couple who moved to Georgetown in the past year has similar concerns. Janet Peterson tells WRDE she grew up in a time of racism in Virginia and that any signs of it should be put away.
"I am offended by the Mississippi flag as well as the confederate flag," Peterson said. "I’ve seen treatment of black people, especially in South Mississippi. I saw it living in California with the Native Americans. Racism is racism and to me the flag symbolizes that."
Delaware Grays Commander Jeff Plumber says that the flag does not reflect racism and has unique history.
"I think it’s a piece of history that we need to pass down to future generations," Plumber said. "It is also a piece of Delaware history. I also believe that in a free country, all cultures should be represented."
A Change.org petition was started for the removal of the monument in June and it has nearly 5,000 signatures. A debate over meaning and history continues.