Cape May can truly be considered, America's first Seaside Resort. Attracting many politicians and wealthy plantation owners, it would reach its peak of popularity in the decade prior to the Civil War,
By 1850, it was featuring many fine, first class hotels. Among them was the Centre House, the Chalfonte, the Columbia House, the Ocean House, the Stockton Hotel, and Congress Hall. In 1853, it was boasting the magnificent Mount Vernon hotel.
By 1863, the Cape May and Millville Railroad was delivering visitors directly to the beach. Dances and grand balls were the events of the day, held in large dining halls and ballrooms. Wide, sprawling, hotel porches, and verandas, provided the perfect setting for social gatherings.Visitors were taking drives along the wide-open beach in their elegantly dressed carriages.
In 1875, the small community of Sea Grove was founded on Cape May Point. Three major fires would ravage Cape May in the 19th century. But the city would rebuild, constructing some of the most modern Victorian cottages of the day.
Music Credits
OPENING - Black Key Bob - Gem #24
Blue Dot Sessions - Yarrow and Root
Dan Lebowitz - Calm Forgiven Fate
Bortex - Pleasure
Aakash Gandhi - Just Stay