Long Stands the Cape May Lighthouse
Standing over 157 feet tall, straight into the salty air on the grounds of Cape May Point State Park facing the Atlantic Ocean, our lighthouse is a remarkable spectacle of history and resilience. The quaint homes of Cape May Point make this conical structure appear to tower above the town—a juxtaposition that allows for the lighthouse to shine whether the beacon is turning or not.
The current lighthouse is not the original, however—two more petite predecessors once guided ships to our shore. The first Cape May lighthouse was constructed in 1823 on the north side entrance to the Delaware Bay. The 68 foot tower was removed and replaced by another in 1847, then once again in 1859, which remains today as the second oldest continuously operating lighthouse in the country.
Climbing the lighthouse is no light feat; the tower’s cast iron staircase consists of 199 steps to the top. The ascension’s tedious incline rewards visitors with unbeatable panoramic views of the ocean and the natural lush land of Cape May Point, making the trek a Cape May bucket list item. The tower’s legitimate functions of maritime navigation have guarded seafarers from coastal collisions for decades, but at the end of the day this nautical landmark knows how to pose for a picture. It’s a great way to say “I am in Cape May.”
August 18, 1908
Dear Granville,
I have been hoping to hear from you, and have often wondered about you and if you got a position – won’t you write me and tell me about yourself – how you are and what you are doing.
What a hot summer it has been. We are thankful to have been here. Have you ever been here?
Hoping to hear from you – soon
Your teacher & friend
M.A.L. Neilson
April 5, 1910
It is glorious here this time of the year —
Love to every body
S. C. Maus
April 9, 1920
Guess
July 22, 1936
Haven’t seen you down here this year.
Are you working? I do hope so.
Eleanor Moore
