I have a confession…I’m a lighthouse lover. Good thing New Jersey has got over a dozen (18 in total, 11 of which are regularly open to the public.) The kids might not think they’re cool…after all, who needs a beacon of light with today’s technology…but I sure adore them.
First, they’re not completely obsolete – most mariners and fishermen still say that they use lighthouses as a backup for electronic equipment. Second, they’re historic – most date back at least a century and were once home to dedicated keepers who kept seamen safe with their guiding lights. Third, they’re beautiful – and we have some real gems in the Garden State. One such gem is the Cape May Lighthouse.
Cape May Lighthouse was built in 1859 and automated in 1946.
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The third fully documented lighthouse to be built at Cape May Point, it is still an active lighthouse.
Mike Rastiello/Flickr
It is 157.5 feet tall, from the ground to the tower’s spiral staircase (which is made of cast iron). There are 217 steps total!
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The lighthouse has two separate walls, both very thick. It was designed to withstand winds several times above hurricane force.
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Once owned by the Coast Guard, it is now owned by the state of New Jersey and leased to Cape May MAC (formerly the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities).
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Cape May MAC raises essential funds for the restoration and maintenance of the lighthouse. They charge a nominal fee to climb the lighthouse, which includes informative exhibits. The lighthouse is currently closed and in need of donations. You can donate to support the lighthouse’s upkeep here. You can even enjoy a climb to the top, virtually, through the video below. You’ll get to look out the windows and enjoy the scenery.
RachaelVoorhees/Flickr
Mike Rastiello/Flickr
Paul Hurtado/Flickr
Judith/Flickr
sneakerdog/Flickr
If you’re looking for an informative, guided tour of an amazing Cape May attraction, you can virtually visit the Emlen Physick Estate here. It’s also free, and it’s one of my favorite online tours yet!
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Address: Cape May Lighthouse, 215 Light House Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204, USA
