In 1974, the executors of the estate of Nancy Sellers Hargraves (decendent of Joseph Shipley's nephew, the Bringhurst family,) through the Delaware Chancery Court, gifted Rockwood Manor House to New Castle County. In exchange, the County accepted the obligation of preserving the historical, aesthetic, and cultural character of Rockwood and of providing an example of Victorian life in Delaware to area residents and visitors through a museum setting.

In 1977, The Friends of Rockwood was incorporated to support the County in its effort to preserve and maintain Rockwood. The county did not want to purchase or own the original collection - furniture, accessories, textiles, books, letters, and photographs - which were left in the manor house. The Friends was asked by the County to raise funds to purchase and conserve that collection.

Since the establishment of this non-profit organization, The Friends has had great success in their fund raising endeavors. Most of the original furnishings in the manor house have been purchased, scores of objects restored, and the stone walls along Shipley Road rebuilt. The latest project was the opening of the reinterpretation of the 1895 kitchen for exhibit.

Additionally, they sponsor a variety of special events and provide the volunteer staff to assist with museum projects and programs. All of The Friends' activities are geared toward increasing visibility, strengthening community support, and providing financial growth.