Add Us As A Trusted Google Source Black and white photo above: In a photo from 1953, boys puff out their chests for the photographer on Grant Street Beach. (Emma Lee/WHYY)
Cape May, New Jersey’s beloved Victorian seaside resort town, holds a powerful story that extends far beyond its stunning architecture and pristine beaches. For generations, the city has been home to one of the East Coast’s most significant Black communities, whose contributions have shaped Cape May’s cultural landscape in profound and lasting ways. Cape May’s African American heritage is now receiving the recognition it deserves. In 2024, this rich legacy was officially acknowledged when Congress approved an updated National Historic Landmark designation, cementing Black history as an essential part of Cape May’s identity. This Black History Month and throughout 2026, visitors and residents alike have unprecedented opportunities to explore, celebrate, and honor this remarkable heritage.
Key Takeaways:
- Cape May’s Black community shaped the city’s identity from the late 1800s through the mid-20th century, building thriving businesses, working in tourism, and creating spaces of culture and resilience
- The “Black Legacy of Historic Cape May” exhibit at Cape May MAC (running through April 12, 2026) showcases influential figures and features an original painting by local artist Chanelle René
- Multiple tours, lectures, and events throughout February and beyond offer immersive ways to experience this important history
- In 2024, Cape May’s National Historic Landmark status was updated to officially recognize the Black community’s contributions alongside the city’s Victorian architecture
- Self-guided and guided walking tours reveal hidden stories of Black-only beaches, the segregated Franklin Street School, and thriving African American businesses
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A Legacy Hidden in Plain Sight
From the late 1800s through the mid-20th century, Cape May’s Black residents built a vibrant community that persisted through enormous challenges, including the Great Depression, World War II, and the Jim Crow era’s segregation. This community included educators like William J. Moore of West Cape May, considered a trailblazer in progressive teaching methods for Black students. Moore planned to spend just one year in West Cape May but stayed longer, leaving an impact that continues to resonate. The community also included entrepreneurs who operated the Hotel Dale, once located at Jefferson and Lafayette streets, which served as an accommodation for distinguished Black visitors and national leaders. Remnants of this historic establishment still stand today as a testament to Black entrepreneurship during an era of extreme segregation.
Experiencing Black History in Cape May This February
The centerpiece of Black History Month celebrations in Cape May is the Black Legacy of Historic Cape May: Unexpected History at the Carroll Gallery, which opened January 16 and runs through April 12, 2026. This collaborative effort between MAC and the Center for Community Arts features notable individuals including Harriet Tubman, Marian Anderson, Paul Robeson, W.E.B. DuBois, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Rev. Stephen Smith, and William J. Moore. The exhibit includes physical artifacts from Moore’s life, a souvenir program from Booker T. Washington’s tour of New Jersey, and china and marketing materials from the Hotel Dale.
The exhibit’s crown jewel is “Beacons of Cape May,” an original painting commissioned from contemporary figurative artist Chanelle René. Using monoprint techniques and fabric collage, René created a powerful piece centered on Tubman, Smith, and Moore, framed by stained-glass windows echoing historic Black churches in Cape May. At the heart of Tubman’s apron, the Cape May Lighthouse shines as a symbolic beacon of guidance and safe passage and representing the freedom sought by people arriving from Delaware and Maryland. The fabric panels feature printed swatches of other exhibit figures, creating a visual tapestry of community.
On February 10 at 2pm, the Museum of Cape May County hosts Singing Praises! presented by Lynda Anderson-Towns and the Macedonia Baptist Church. This special lecture explores the Black churches and Negro spirituals in Cape May, revealing how Cape May’s three churches served as the social, political, and spiritual heart of the community. Attendees will learn about the Underground Railroad leader who founded one church, discover how another sparked the creative genius behind “We Shall Overcome,” and see how the third introduced audiences to uplifting Negro spirituals. Space is limited, so reservations are essential (609-465-3535).
The Cape May MAC Lunch & Learn Series offers Black Classical Composters on February 18 at noon. Dr. Brenda Leonard celebrates eight composers of color whose classical music is re-entering the mainstream, addressing systemic racism in music history. Bring your own lunch and beverage to the event.
On February 26 at 6pm, the Center for Community Arts hosts Black Voices of Cape May: A Feeling of Community, where the Community History Committee discusses their award-winning book compiled over 20+ years of collecting oral histories. The talk will include highlights of the book and information about their research.
Beyond February: Year-Round Opportunities
Black History events in Cape May extend well beyond February. The Black Legacy in Historic Cape May Trolley Tour celebrates how the Black community’s contributions became essential to Cape May’s National Historic Landmark status. Tours run February 16, Wednesdays in May, and Saturdays in June. In July and August, Thursday tours combine the trolley experience with a visit to the Harriet Tubman Museum.
On March 19, the Community History Committee from the Center for Community Arts will present an overview of the Cape May African American Heritage Walking Tour from the library’s comfort, revealing stories of Black-only beaches, the segregated Franklin Street School, and thriving businesses.
The Cape May MAC presents Grant Street Beach: Nostalgia, Connection and Black Joy as part of their Lunch & Learn Series on June 17. Chanelle René returns to share her deeply personal connection to Grant Street Beach, Cape May’s historic Black beach, discussing how family stories and beach experiences shaped her Grant Street Beach painting series.
For those preferring self-paced exploration, a self-guided cell phone audio tour begins at the Historic Franklin Street School (720 Franklin Street), covering 10 significant stops. Guided 90-minute walking tours ($10/adult) are also available by contacting execdircca@gmail.com.
The Harriett Tubman Museum is open year-round (with hours varying by the season. This Cape May museum, is a testament to one of America’s greatest heroes. Exhibits include information about Tubman’s life as well as Cape May’s connection to the Underground Railroad.
A Story That Continues
Cape May’s African American history isn’t merely historical; it’s a living legacy that continues shaping the community today. These Black History Month events and year-round opportunities invite everyone to discover stories of courage, creativity, and community that have enriched Cape May for generations.
