Summer Fun in Cape May, New Jersey!

By Joseph Bordonaro · Originally published November 2017 · p. 5

A ”Seaside in 1862” event? Yes, this has actually happened! On the weekend of Sept. 9-10, 2017, over 50 Civil War reenactors/living historians gathered at the beautiful Victorian-era town of Cape May, N.J., to recreate a popular civilian activity of the 19th century—bathing in the ocean! The event began two years previously, when Jessica Craig, who has organized the very popular all-civilian event at Hopewell Furnace, Penn., created a Facebook page dedicated to the concept of an 1860’s seaside event. Thus began a long process of research, planning, scheduling, and sewing that culminated in an amazing recreation of a seaside excursion in Cape May. Every outfit was researched and sewn by the participants. As the photos show, their work was outstanding!

Participants enjoyed carriage rides through Cape May.

(Jessica Craig)

Sherri Groff, of Oaklyn, N.J., protects herself with a parasol while visiting the beach. (Alex Groff)

In addition to the seaside excursion, participants also shared rooms at Victorian-era bed and breakfast establishments, enjoyed meals together while dressed in 1860’s attire, went on carriage rides through town, and visited the Cape May lighthouse. The participants had a wonderful time and spectators were absolutely amazed at the completely unique event transpiring before their eyes. Not that many people travel to go to reenactments, so this was probably the first time most spectators at the event had ever seen one. Any people who had already been to a reenactment almost certainly saw a battle, so this event was a revelation for them. It is not known at this time if a repeat performance is in the works, but judging by the enthusiasm of the participants, and no doubt their desire to use their wonderful bathing outfits again, it is very probable that visitors to Cape May will once again be startled and delighted by the sight of beach goers dressed a la 1862!

Corinne Boerth, of Chesterfield, N.J., enjoys a stroll on the beach. (Joe Bordonaro)

Anne Wolf, of Keedysville, Md., and Lori D’Angelo, of Dover, Penn., enjoy a stroll through town. (Jessica Craig)

Cape May 2017. A visit to Cape May Light was a popular excursion. Wet plate photo by Jim Pfeiffer.