Colonial & Early American
1620s-1860s
About This Era
Before the resort era, the Jersey Shore was a working coastline of fishing villages, whaling towns, and maritime commerce. Sandy Hook Lighthouse, built in 1764, still stands as a testament to this era.
Key Highlights
- ✓Sandy Hook Lighthouse (1764) - oldest working lighthouse in the US
- ✓Whaling industry centered in Long Beach Island
- ✓Revolutionary War battles and encampments
- ✓Early fishing communities in Cape May
- ✓Salt hay farming along the bay shores
Quick Facts
- Time Period
- 1620s-1860s
- Key Locations
- Sandy Hook, Cape May, Long Beach Island, Tuckerton
- Historic Sites
- 1 to explore
Historic Sites from This Era
Sandy Hook Lighthouse
Sandy Hook • Historic Lighthouse
Built in 1764, Sandy Hook Lighthouse is the oldest working lighthouse in the United States. It guided ships through the treacherous waters of New York Harbor for over 250 years.
Visit Website →Key Locations to Explore
These towns played important roles during the Colonial & Early American period:
Explore Other Eras
Victorian Era
1870s-1900s
Cape May became America's first seaside resort, attracting presidents and high society. The Victorian architecture that defines Cape May today was built during this golden age of leisure travel. Railroad access transformed sleepy fishing villages into fashionable destinations.
Boardwalk Golden Age
1870-1950
The boardwalk transformed beach towns into entertainment destinations. Atlantic City invented salt water taffy, rolling chairs, and the modern amusement pier. Steel Pier became the "Showplace of the Nation" with diving horses and big band concerts.
Maritime Heritage
1700s-Present
The Jersey Shore's treacherous shoals claimed thousands of ships. Lighthouses dot the coast, each with its own story. The U.S. Life-Saving Service, predecessor to the Coast Guard, was perfected here. Shipwrecks still emerge from the sands.
Explore Jersey Shore History
Discover walking tours, historic sites, and legendary stories.