The Chalfonte Hotel

The charming Chalfonte Hotel dates back to 1876, when Colonel Henry Sawyer, a war hero who escaped imprisonment and execution, paired his vigor and passion with a second chance at life and new beginnings to build what is recognized today as the oldest hotel in Cape May.

The word “old” is often present in discussion of our historic area, as Cape May is the oldest seaside resort in the nation. It is a title we wear proudly and it plays a role in what keeps reading about Cape May so interesting. There is a seemingly never-ending stream of stories to be told.

We’ve uncovered many stories through our collection of old postcards. This batch, dating back to 1919, were from visitors who either stayed at the Chalfonte, left gifts in the King Edward bar for friends, or were enticed by its photogenic appearance and flower beds.

Cape May’s mission and legacy of preserving a rich history is embodied in this building. Over the years, staff and volunteers alike have dedicated their time to its maintenance and upkeep. The Chalfonte does not stand collecting dust; this ornate time capsule is as alive as ever—serving as an enigmatic edifice providing guests with southern hospitality and locals a hub of entertainment and artistry.

color rendering of the Chalfonte hotel flying the US flag from the cupola

July 19, 1919

Here since Thurs. Home on Monday. Preparing for the “Ark.” The weather lacrimal to some great degree.

Yours
H. O’Donovan

July 19

color rendering of the Chalfonte hotel from a slight angle at the street corner

August 15, 1924

Dear Emma I write a few times to you I received your letter I was glad to here from you I am well and hope that you are all the same and you will see the flowers on this card and we have the same in our yard and I found them in one bush they are 4 hundred and 25 on one bush and we have other flower in our yard and we had rain but it did not for 4 weeks here

#20 First Ave cape may nj

black and white postcard of the Chalfonte taken from the street corner, showing the two long sides of the hotel

July 31, 1947

Dear Dauenport

Yes there is a sack in the “King Edward” for you – at present I can’t say off hand who will be coming up for just that weekend from Richmond – if anything turns up, will let you know-,

Nancy Satterfield