The 1859 Cape May Lighthouse, one of the oldest continually operating lighthouses in the country, is hosting a day of family-friendly activities in honor of National Lighthouse Day Aug. 7 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The National Lighthouse Day festivities will take place on the grounds of the Cape May Lighthouse, located at Cape May Point State Park on Lighthouse Ave. off Sunset Blvd.
From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. there will be hands-on activities for children, like pirate-hat-making, storytelling, and demonstrations on boater safety and the importance of the Cape May Lighthouse by the Coast Guard Auxiliary.
Meet the mascot of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry—Lighthouse Pete the Pirate—as well as current Lighthouse Keepers and representatives from the Cape May County Zoo who will be on hand with a few of their friendly animals.
From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., over a dozen crafts vendors will set up shop on the grounds and will be selling one-of-a-kind handmade goods including nautical merchandise.
Admission to activities on the grounds is free and refreshments will be for sale.
In December 1986, MAC leased the Lighthouse from the State of New Jersey, with the mission of restoring, maintaining, and opening the structure to the public. MAC opened the ground floor to the public on July 18, 1987, and the full tower on May 28, 1988.
Visitors can now climb this historic beacon’s 199 steps to the watch gallery for an unparalleled view of the Jersey Cape and Atlantic Ocean.
Congress designated National Lighthouse Day on Aug. 7, 1989, marking the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Lighthouse Act and the commissioning of the first Federal lighthouse in the United States.
The purpose was to provide recognition for the important role that lighthouses played in the history of this country, and the values of safety, heroism, and American ingenuity that they represent, as well as honoring and encouraging continued restoration efforts for existing lighthouses, many of which had fallen into disrepair.
In today’s high tech world, it’s easy to forget the wholesomeness and serenity of lighthouses. The history they provide gives us the opportunity to step back in time and learn more about our country.
The contributions they made to our society, from protecting our coasts to guiding our sailors, should continue to be appreciated and remembered.
For information call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278, or visit www.capemaymac.org.
North Cape May – Another shout out to Officer Bohn, the school resource officer at LCMR. I admire his hard work and devotion to the students and staff as I see him every morning and afternoon, snow, wind , sleet or…
