Nestled on the southern tip of the Jersey Shore, Cape May is a charming seaside town renowned for its stunning beaches, Victorian architecture, and rich history. But have you ever wondered how this picturesque destination got its name? In this article, we will delve into the fascinating origin story of Cape May, uncovering the historical events and figures that shaped its identity.
The Early Explorers and the Cape May Peninsula
Long before Cape May became the beloved vacation spot it is today, the area was inhabited by the Lenni-Lenape Native American tribe. They referred to the region as “Kechemeche,” meaning “place of fish.” The abundance of marine life in the nearby Delaware Bay made it an ideal location for fishing and gathering resources.
In 1609, Henry Hudson, an English explorer working for the Dutch East India Company, sailed along the Jersey Shore. He named the peninsula “Cape May” in honor of a Dutch nobleman named Cornelius Jacobsen Mey, who was the captain of one of Hudson’s ships. This act of naming the cape after a prominent figure was a common practice among European explorers.
The Dutch and Swedish Influence
In the early 17th century, the Dutch and the Swedes established settlements in the Cape May region, each leaving their mark on the area’s cultural heritage. The Dutch constructed a trading post near Cape May called “Schout’s Eiland” (Sheriff’s Island), while the Swedes established a settlement known as “New Sweden” just a few miles north.
The British Takeover
In 1664, the British seized control of the region from the Dutch and renamed the area “Cape May County.” The British colonial influence began to shape the town’s growth and development, as they encouraged the construction of roads, mills, and farms in the area. Cape May started to evolve into a thriving community, attracting settlers from various backgrounds.
A Haven for the Elite
By the mid-19th century, Cape May had transformed into a popular resort town for the wealthy elite. The town’s picturesque landscapes, moderate climate, and pristine beaches drew in affluent visitors from major cities like Philadelphia and New York. The Victorian architecture that now defines Cape May began to take shape during this period, as opulent mansions and grand hotels were constructed to accommodate the growing number of tourists.
The World Wars and the Decline
Like many other coastal towns, Cape May faced challenges during the World Wars. The town became a strategic military location, and the U.S. Navy established a training facility there during World War II. After the wars, Cape May struggled to regain its pre-war glory as vacation destinations shifted and newer resorts emerged elsewhere. The town fell into a period of decline, with many of its historic buildings deteriorating or being demolished.
Preserving the Past
In the 1960s, a group of concerned citizens formed the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC) to preserve and restore Cape May’s architectural heritage. Their efforts led to the town’s designation as a National Historic Landmark in 1976, and today, Cape May boasts one of the largest collections of preserved Victorian buildings in the United States.
Conclusion: A Name Carved in History
From its humble beginnings as a fishing village to its transformation into a renowned seaside resort, Cape May’s name has become synonymous with beauty, history, and charm. Through the centuries, the town has weathered numerous challenges and reinvented itself time and again. Today, Cape May continues to captivate visitors with its unique blend of natural beauty, architectural splendor, and a rich cultural tapestry that reflects the diverse influences that have shaped its identity. So, the next time you stroll along the shores of Cape May, take a moment to appreciate the history embedded within its name.
