Cape May County History and Lodging
Cape May County's independence was confirmed by the Revolutionary War rather than created by it. Local residents had either ignored or circumvented colonial government and while many were pacifists owing to religious belief, all aided in the war effort and local defense. Extracting precious salt from the sea, supplying food and clothing and defending local waters through the exploits of bold privateers, Cape May County citizens aided and profited from the war. In the early years of the nation, local farmer entrepreneurs consolidated their landholdings by marriage and purchase, creating 1000+ acre plantations. African and Native American slaves were employed in the operation of these large agricultural endeavors. Local timber was used to produce roof shingles, fence rails and ship hulls.
The pattern of trade and travel between rural Cape May and urban Philadelphia, Baltimore and Wilmington also led to the development of tourism. Oppressive heat, poor sanitation and epidemic disease was common in cities during the summer months. Relief was sought through a sojourn to Cape Island, the community at the southern most tip of the Cape May peninsula. Local residents provided accommodations and meals for visitors who came to "take the ocean waters" for health and recreation. They also enjoyed fishing, collecting shells and riding their carriages over the hard packed sand beaches. A new business opportunity had come to Cape May.