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Yes, there was a South Cape May
Once officially part of Lower Township, South Cape May existed between 1894-1945. This 18-block community would disappear quietly and slowly after several storms inflicted damage it could not recover from. My dad would tell us stories of his childhood days, scavenging the old South Caper May area looking for copper and other scrap metal to sell. Now forgotten, South Cape May was once a beach resort that showcased many historic features that would surprise even the most self-proclaimed die hard "local". Did you know that the Cape May railroad extended into South Cape May? Or that the Margate Lucy was not the only large elephant at the Jersey shore? The Light of Asia, a 65 foot tall elephant offering fantastic views of the area, along with an ice cream shop in one of her legs existed in South Cape May.
It's bid to rival Cape May as a seashore destination finally ended when a fire destroyed the Mount Vernon Hotel shorty before its completion. Touted to be the largest hotel in the world at the time, the hotel showcased 1200 rooms and a 425 by 60 ft dining hall with over 40 gas-burning chandeliers. Much of the local construction was spanish-style villas which were completely unsuited for the climate. As storm after storm pummeled the coast, most of the buildings were destroyed and some washed out to sea. Many were moved to new plots in Cape May. All that exists today is the South Cape May Meadows, a 200-acre coastal birdwatching sanctuary. The South Cape May Trading Company's iconic South Cape May collection allows you to own a piece of history and show you are a true local!
