This community originated in the mid-18th century as travel increased between Dover and the head of the Chester River and a Public House was established here to serve travelers. Growing commerce encouraged settlement, and the village, first known as Grog-Town and Lewis’ Cross Roads, was formally named Kenton in 1806. A post office was established in 1857. After the Civil War, the arrival of the Maryland and Delaware Railroad made the town an important shipping point for local goods and products. By the 1880s it had 300 residents and a number of thriving businesses, and on April 22, 1887, Kenton was formally incorporated by the Delaware General Assembly.