Wildwood Historical Open House Welcomes Summer

WILDWOOD ─  Those “Wildwood days” blossomed once more June 2 as city residents, guests, and officials met at the Wildwood Museum open house. 
Offering food, conversation, and memories, the museum opened its doors and a glimpse into an era that could have been the set for “Happy Days,” according to Mayor Ernie Troiano. 
“They (historical society) do a great job here,” Troiano said while watching the ebb and flow of the crowd.
Troiano, whose family roots run deep in Wildwood, reflected on his youth: “We will never relive them again, unfortunately.”
Troiano also added, “I know more people in the cemetery,” referring to those from the “old Wildwood.”
“So many people,” Troiano said. “We have a great history.”
When asked what changed the dynamics in the city, Troiano replied, “No one stayed.”
With “better” opportunities and the prospect of a college education, many of Troiano’s classmates left the island for the wider world.
According to Troiano, most inhabitants of Pacific Avenue were either of Italian or Jewish descent, adding to the flavors and textures of life along the street. “The kids wanted to do more than their parents,” Troiano explained.
In 1986, the Washington Street Mall in Cape May was “almost torn down,” according to Troiano, who attributes the Mall’s survival to the “artsy crowd” who came from New York.
According to Troiano, more Victorian houses existed in Wildwood than in Cape May, and he tried listing the Boardwalk on the historic registry.
“Wildwood got caught up in the suburban push,” Troiano said.
Larry Lillo, the secretary of the historical society, concurred and reminisced on the many businesses that once lined Pacific Avenue.
“If Wildwood didn’t have it, you didn’t need it,” Troiano said with a laugh. He recalled when Pacific Avenue bustled with shoppers every Friday night. “You have to live it to have the passion,” Troiano said.
When asked what his hopes are for Wildwood, Troiano replied that he wants people to “come and enjoy” and bring back the “hometown” spirit. “Relive it with us,” Troiano added. “We grew up in the best of times.” 
Museum staff members said they were pleased with the “good turn out” and carried their hopes for a good summer season with them.
“If you come (to the museum), you’ll end up spending all day here,” said Lillo.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.