Page 24 - 2024 Southern NJ Vacationer

LIGHTHOUSES
Southern Shore lighthouses preserve maritime history
Atlantic City Lighthouse
ONCE UPON A TIME, along the pristine shores of New Jersey’s Southern Shore, a quartet of sentinel towers emerged, each with its unique tale woven into the maritime history of Atlantic, Cape May and Cumberland counties. These lighthouses, standing proudly against the coastal winds, have guided sailors, witnessed shipwrecks, and held steadfast through the centuries, becoming more than beacons – they are living monuments to a bygone era.
Absecon Lighthouse: The journey begins in Atlantic County, where the Absecon Lighthouse rises as the tallest lighthouse in the state at 171 feet tall. Dating back to 1857, making it the oldest, Absecon has weathered the storm of time. As you climb the 228 spiraling steps, they trace the footsteps of keepers who, for generations, tended to the flickering flame atop this historic tower. Absecon’s light, the original first-order Fresnel Lens, has guided countless vessels, including those navigating the treacherous waters off the Jersey coast during the Civil War. The panoramic view from the top provides a mesmerizing spectacle. Restoration efforts in the late 20th century ensured that this cultural landmark would continue to illuminate the Atlantic County shoreline for generations to come. www.abseconlighthouse.org
Hereford Inlet Lighthouse: As this maritime journey continues, you’ll find yourself in Cape May County. Built in 1874, Hereford Inlet
Lighthouse is the only lighthouse of its kind on the East Coast and only one of three in the nation. The residential Stick-Style building was both the keeper’s house and the light tower in one structure. Considered a harbor light, it marked the entrance to Hereford Inlet. After a severe storm undermined the building’s foundation, it was moved in 1913 about 150 feet west to where it sits today. The interior of the building is furnished with period antiques and educational displays. www.herefordinletlighthouse.com
Cape May Lighthouse: Cape May County is home to the iconic Cape May Lighthouse. Perched at the southernmost tip of the state,
this elegant structure has been a guiding light since 1859. Nestled within Cape May Point State Park, the lighthouse beckons visitors to explore its rich history and ascend its 199 steps.
The lens at the top of Cape May Lighthouse, a first-order Fresnel lens, has cast its radiant beam across the Delaware Bay for over a century. Cape May Lighthouse not only serves as a maritime beacon but also as an educational hub. Visitors learn about the unique ecosystem surrounding the lighthouse, the migratory patterns of birds, and the maritime lore that permeates the charming resort of Cape May.
On clear days, the view extends to Cape May, Wildwood and as far as Delaware. Within immediate view is Battery 223, a harbor defense battery originally built during World War II. This convergence of nature and history makes Cape May Lighthouse a must-visit destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of New Jersey’s coastal heritage. www.capemaymac.org
East Point Lighthouse: The maritime odyssey brings light enthusiasts to Cumberland County, where the tranquil shores of the Maurice River cradle the second oldest lighthouse in New Jersey. Built in 1849, East Point Lighthouse served as a guiding light for vessels navigating the waters of the Delaware Bay. Surrounded by salt marshes and nestled amid the whispers of coastal winds, the lighthouse has witnessed the changing tides of the region’s maritime industries, from oyster harvesting to the heyday of shipping. www.eastpointlight.com
Visitors to New Jersey’s Southern Shore
Hereford Inlet Lighthouse
22 SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY VACATIONER