Victorian Era
1870s-1900s
About This Era
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.
Key Highlights
- ✓Cape May has 600+ preserved Victorian buildings
- ✓Presidents Lincoln, Grant, Harrison, and Pierce vacationed here
- ✓The "Grand Hotels" era with multi-story beachfront resorts
- ✓Introduction of the railroad to shore towns
- ✓Atlantic City's first boardwalk built in 1870
Quick Facts
- Time Period
- 1870s-1900s
- Key Locations
- Cape May, Atlantic City, Long Branch, Asbury Park
- Historic Sites
- 2 to explore
Historic Sites from This Era
Cape May Historic District
Cape May • National Historic Landmark
The entire city of Cape May is a National Historic Landmark District with over 600 Victorian buildings. It is the largest collection of Victorian architecture in the United States.
Visit Website →Emlen Physick Estate
Cape May • Victorian Museum
This 1879 Stick Style mansion was designed by architect Frank Furness. It now serves as the headquarters for Cape May MAC and offers tours showcasing Victorian life.
Visit Website →Key Locations to Explore
These towns played important roles during the Victorian Era period:
Explore Other Eras
Colonial & Early American
1620s-1860s
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.
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.