Washington Street Mall through the years

Three staples of Cape May are picturesque beaches, preserved Victoriana, and the very walkable Washington Street Mall. Our town’s center was not always the pedestrian oasis it is today – though all of Cape May proper is quite pedestrian friendly. As you can see on most of these cards, a dirt road preceded the paved 300, 400, and 500 blocks of Washington Street. 

This vibrant hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment has been reserved for meandering about on foot since the Washington Street Mall’s ribbon cutting on June 24, 1971. Former Mayor Frank Gauvry is the one to thank for its development with the original vision of creating a “Victorian Village Shopping Mall”—initially many Washington Street merchants feared this change. However, they soon commended the mayor for what turned out to be the most success the shops and restaurants had experienced yet. 

There is a natural fascination with seeing what familiar sites once looked like. Even our very office is faintly visible in some of the cards. You can clearly see the previous Star and Wave location from 1909, a publication that continues to print today. Over time, and with countless footsteps treading these blocks, what began as a risky attempt at urban renewal became a path that today radiates Cape May’s essence of charm and history.

July 28, 1908

From your Dare Husben Robbert Stiles Wiley Pop Netile 

Be up Saturday and he will tell you x

all good by xxxxxx

July 19, 1909

Am going to Wildwood Wednesday.
Cooper Battalion is over there.

Does this look familiar. The place where I put the arrow is where we bought the 40 cent candles. Do you remember. H Reeves comes to-day to stay 4 or 5 days.

Laura

April 28, 1949

Dear Dorothy

How do you like this cool weather. I can use some of the cool weather myself as it isn’t too hot where I work. With the cool weather. I’ll be sending for some cards later as I have some cards coming that I order last week.

Sincerely
Helen McCallum

March 10, 1981

Dear Grace: Down for 1 week. Cold weather but no snow. In Chatham we had 7 in. Came down with boots scarfs, heavy coats and came into great sun-shine. Keep in touch.

Love
Marie & Tom