WILDWOOD ─ Every community has its quiet places, sometimes where one least expects them, and Holly Beach Park is no exception. Tucked between Burk and Andrews avenues, Holly Beach Park boasts a quiet retreat and a glimpse into a bygone era.
The Herald met with Partners in Preservation President Cathy Smith Oct. 11, as she explained the ongoing efforts at the park. Shade trees, a fountain, and the mini schoolhouse grace the grounds of the park, refurbished and maintained by volunteers.
According to historical records, the mini schoolhouse took shape in 1882 as a “small, one-room sales office” for the Holly Beach City Improvement Company.
In 1883, Mary VanValin, daughter of the first mayor, opened a school for settlers’ children at the age of 15. Ten students received VanValin’s tutelage, and the mini schoolhouse was also used for church services and other gatherings.
According to Smith, the mini schoolhouse even served as the first borough hall when Holly Beach formally incorporated in 1885. The site became Holly Beach Park in 1939.
Another hidden treasure in the park is the Cape May County Fishermen’s Memorial, a stark piece of granite memorializing the commercial fishermen who never returned home.
“It’s (memorial) overlooked,” Smith said.
The mini schoolhouse was dedicated in its present location May 28, 1976, and work at the site continues. Smith praised resident Bob Baker who paints the park benches every season and cleans up after the resident herons who return annually to nest.
Wildwood boasts several parks, including the once-enchanting Magnolia Lake, and Smith is glad for progress and action taken by the city in their maintenance. However, Smith still awaits the installment of the original bell belonging to the mini schoolhouse.
The bell was vandalized and removed for repair and restoration; Smith says she has waited two years for its return.
The Herald asked Mayor Ernie Troiano about the bell’s status and learned it will be installed once work is completed at the park. The city maintains the grounds and also plans to restore the fountain.
Smith looks forward to a new irrigation system that will provide water to the flowers and other plants. More flowers will be planted and future improvements made.
Smith told how neighbors help water the flowers by squirting them with their garden hoses and even assist baby herons which fall from their nests.
“It’s a joint effort by the whole neighborhood,” Smith said.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.
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