Much of Cape May County encompasses what is known as the Cape May Peninsula. It represents the southernmost part of the Jersey Shore.
The area was named after Captain Cornelius Jacob Mey, who sailed there from Holland in the 17th century, establishing small colonies on the peninsula. Whalers from New England and Long Island later created settlements along the coast. Most of the county's coastline consists of narrow barrier islands. The original names of these islands were Four Mile Beach, Five Mile Beach, Seven Mile Beach. Ludlam's Beach, and Peck's Beach. They have since been renamed Cape May, The Wildwoods, Stone Harbor and Avalon, Sea Isle City and Strathmere, and Ocean City, respectively.
Farmers used these islands as a grazing land for their livestock in the 19th century. They would swim their cattle out to the barrier islands and let them feed in the summer. Cape May would become recognized as America's first seaside resort prior to the Civil War, attracting thousands of vacationers from the south and nearby Philadelphia. Despite being devastated by three major fires, Cape May has become known as one of the most charming resorts on the Jersey Shore, highlighted by its splendid Victorian homes and mansions.
In the 20th century, with its 2.5 mile boardwalk, Ocean City would become one of the most popular, family-friendly resorts in the country.
Music Credits:
The 126ers - Wide Awake
Scott Buckley - Wanderlust
The Great North Sound Society – Pink Sunrise
Track Tribe – Longer Distance
Scott Buckley - Undertow
Lauren Duski - Rollin
