When the weather takes a turn for the worse and a beach day is out of the question, you’ll still be able to find a fun activity in Cape May County! Every town has something unique to offer and this is the perfect opportunity to explore places you may not have visited otherwise. This week, visit a few of the historical museums in Cape May County!
Avalon History Center
215 39th St., Avalon
(609) 967-0090, www.avalonhistorycenter.org
The Avalon History Center is a local history museum that displays a collection of objects from Avalon’s past. Visitors can view fun and fascinating displays, including a 1925 Avalon Life Boat that they can climb into. The History Center’s collection includes thousands of photographs, objects and ephemera that tell the story of Avalon’s residents, places and events. Programming includes lectures on historical topics, musical performances, events related to rotating exhibits, a monthly “Teatime” during which visitors are encouraged to share stories of the past, and other annual events.
Cape May County Museum
504 Rt. 9 N., Cape May Court House
(609) 465-3535, www.cmcmuseum.org
Established in 1927, the Cape May County Museum has been our county’s foremost advocate for the acquisition, preservation and display of local history. Housed in three historic buildings, the museum is a treasure trove of exhibits showcasing county life from Native American times through the 21st century. The 1704 Colonial period home, 1830 Federal period addition, carriage shed and barn offer a fascinating look at how life in the county has evolved. The museum also houses an outstanding genealogical and research library for the serious historian.
Ocean City Historical Museum
1735 Simpson Ave., Ocean City
(609) 399-1801, www.ocnjmuseum.org
The Ocean City Historical Museum invites the community to explore the rich history of Ocean City with its collection relevant to the city’s heritage, traditions and memories. The museum features exhibits, artifacts, a photo collection, maps, historical documents and a modern research library that includes Genealogy research tools. The museum has two permanent exhibits: the first is “Sea View and Salt Air: A History of Ocean City,” which displays a historical timeline of Ocean City, and the second is shipwreck items from the Sindia, a four-master barque that grounded itself here in 1901.
Sea Isle City Historical Museum
4800 Central Ave., Sea Isle City
(609) 263-2992, www.seaislemuseum.com
The Sea Isle City Historical Museum celebrates the unique culture of Sea Isle City. Besides showcasing many exhibits and artifacts, the museum provides an area to sit and conduct research, take notes or simply browse through the many articles, books and photographs. Other highlights include a collection of Sea Isle City residents’ bridal gowns that dates back to 1880, 200 family photo albums, a Memorial Garden, a scavenger hunt for children, and a “Touch ‘N Try” area where military and other uniforms are available to try on for a photo op.
Stone Harbor Museum
9410 Second Ave., Stone Harbor
(609) 368-7500, www.stoneharbormuseum.org
Opened in 1999, the Stone Harbor Museum houses a collection of 50,000 artifacts, displays and videos that bring the past into the present. Highlights include videos of the beach and boardwalk, historic storms, oral interviews with residents and more. Also featured are the Bird Sanctuary and the trains which brought the earliest visitors to Stone Harbor. The Maritime Annex at 235 93rd St. was opened in 2010 and houses memorabilia of sailing in Stone Harbor.
Even on the gloomiest days, you can still find fun at the Jersey Shore. Next time the sun isn’t shining so bright, check back in with DoTheShore to see what rainy day activities are next on your list!