For the Ocean

Text by Cassidy Jones / Summer 2023

Cape May has plenty of allure, and much of it has been curated by local shop owners, bed and breakfasts, careful caretakers of historic structures, restaurateurs and more. But its foundational attraction is the great blue salty expanse that hugs the island, drawing people to Cape May for stunning natural scenery and summertime bathing.

These cards capture both breathtaking snapshots of the powerful Atlantic Ocean and our coastline as well as the impressions of visitors from decades past, dating as far back as 1908.

June 11, 1934

Dear Johny, do you remember the northeaster at camp last year? I hope you are having a fine time at camp. We are down here at the friends conference and getting good and sun-burned. There are quite a few Swarthmore people here too. Elizabeth and I have been reading down here in the lobby so we can listen to the radio but we’re sleepy now

Your friend Stubbie

August 23, 1908

I am among the Ocean Bathers at Cape May, N.J.

First came down for the day and an ocean bath. The beach here is the best I ever saw.

Dode

August 17, 1910

Front of card: Raging Sea Under Cape May Pier

We are having rain nearly every day hope it will be better soon. have not had time to get my 40 winks this week. Have been so busy sewing. marked out the other ruffle fudda skirt. Ashton is in Wilmington del . did not stay in Washington. have not received any mail for you this week. Will you be at home Sat.

– S.t.