NEW JERSEY - The Jersey Shore, a famed stretch of coastline known for its vibrant boardwalks and sandy beaches, has a history as rich and deep as the Atlantic itself. While many towns blossomed during the Victorian era and the 20th century, one stands out as the undisputed original. Cape May, located at the southern tip of New Jersey, holds the distinguished title of the state's oldest shore town and is celebrated as America's oldest seaside resort.
Cape May: A Journey Through New Jersey's Oldest Seaside Resort
The history of Cape May stretches back to the earliest days of European exploration in the region.
- Exploration and Naming: The area was visited by explorer Henry Hudson in 1609. In the 1620s, Dutch Captain Cornelius Jacobsen Mey explored the coastline, naming the peninsula "Cape Mey" in his own honor (the spelling was later anglicized to May).
- First Settlements: The first European settlers in the area were whalers from New England and Long Island, who established small communities in the mid-17th century to take advantage of the abundant marine life.
America's First Seaside Resort: A Philadelphia Escape
Cape May's most unique claim to fame is its long and continuous history as a vacation destination. By the mid-1700s, well before the American Revolution, wealthy and prominent Philadelphians began making the journey to Cape May to escape the city's summer heat and enjoy the therapeutic sea air (Source: The Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities, Cape May MAC). This established Cape May as one of the very first seaside resorts in the United States, a tradition that has continued for over 250 years.
Rebirth in Victorian Splendor:
A catastrophic fire in 1878 destroyed much of the existing town. However, this event paved the way for Cape May's iconic architectural identity.
- Victorian Architecture: The town was largely rebuilt during the late 19th century, resulting in one of the country's largest and most impressive collections of authentic late-Victorian-era buildings. These ornate "painted ladies," with their intricate gingerbread trim, charming porches, and vibrant colors, define the town's visual character.
- National Historic Landmark: In recognition of its unique and beautifully preserved architectural heritage, the entire city of Cape May was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976.
Cape May Today:
Modern-day Cape May is a beloved destination that masterfully blends its rich history with timeless coastal charm. Visitors flock to:
- Stroll through the historic streets and admire the stunning Victorian architecture.
- Relax on the beautiful beaches.
- Stay in historic hotels and charming bed & breakfasts.
- Enjoy the award-winning dining scene and shop at unique local boutiques.
- Partake in bird watching, as the area is a major migratory route.
While many towns line the Jersey Shore, Cape May holds the unique and enduring title of the state's oldest seaside resort. Its history, from its early days as a whaling outpost to its rise as a premier vacation spot for colonial society and its stunning Victorian rebirth, makes it a truly special destination. A visit to Cape May is more than just a trip to the beach; it's a journey through centuries of American history, architecture, and enduring coastal culture.
Sources:
- The Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (Cape May MAC)
- City of Cape May, New Jersey
- National Park Service (National Historic Landmarks Program)
- New Jersey Historical Society
- Historical accounts of seaside resorts in America
