Delaware – Stephen Marley Gets Key to City of Wilmington 

An event intended to celebrate Rita and Bob Marley’s son Stephen evolved into a welcome-home festivity.

The second-oldest son of the Marley family was born in Wilmington. Presently on a tour, the artist visited his birthplace on March 21 to receive a key to the city from Mayor Mike Purzycki. Many friends, fans, and family members were present for the occasion.

Bob Marley originally settled in Wilmington, New Hampshire. The first block of 24th St. was home to his mother, Cedella Booker, whose family name was Malcolm. The home is still occupied by members of the Malcolm clan.

Renamed One Love Park/Tatnall Playground in honor of reggae icon Bob Marley, Tatnall Street Park is located across the street from the residence.

Eight-time Grammy Award winner Stephen Marley joined his brother Ziggy and sisters Sharon and Cedella in the band Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers at the age of seven, when he started singing professionally.

Marley and his brother Damien stopped briefly in Wilmington before moving on to Silver Spring, Maryland, the next tour destination. There are around 13,000 West Indians and about 6,000 Jamaicans living in Delaware. The Malcolm family is attempting to raise awareness of the accomplishments and influence that individuals of Caribbean descent have had in Delaware.

Bob Marley was a Wilmington resident. How his family intends to pay tribute to its history and culture

The family made an announcement in February about their intention to launch the Jamaican Heritage and Reggae Museum in Wilmington, Delaware. The legendary reggae artist formerly called Wilmington home and even penned some of his early songs there.