Four years ago, I was a board member for Absecon Lighthouse, New Jersey’s tall­est, and the country’s third tall­est. The executive director at that time accepted a position with the New Jersey Historical Commission. Knowing of my marketing background, the board asked me to step into the posi­tion and apply those skills to bring Absecon Lighthouse into the limelight. This beautiful gem had some basic challenges: 1) its name. It’s called Absecon Lighthouse because it’s on Absecon Island, and was named prior to the City of Atlantic City incorporating. 2) its location. We are four blocks north of Showboat Casino, and two blocks off of the boardwalk, hence, “not on the beaten path.” 3) its very modest budget, leaving little to no money for marketing and advertising.

Thus began a very aggres­sive special events and publicity campaign to bring awareness to the local community and beyond of this beautifully restored light­house and property. Using spe­cial events as a catalyst to receive newspaper coverage, along with other strategic marketing strate­gies and incentives, we have been able to grow our profile in the community. Some results to date include:

  • Increasing visitors by 36% since 2005
  • Increasing membership by 29% since 2005
  • Increasing press coverage by 90% since 2005
  • Reducing a deficit budget year over year to almost zero in 2007

The Lighthouse is also avail­able for weddings, and in 2007, I became a non-denominational minister so that I can perform ceremonies, including civil unions.

The Board of Trustees of the Inlet Public Private Association, Inc. states that its mission is to improve and maintain the qual­ity of life in the Inlet section of Atlantic City by preserving the rich history of the Inlet through the care and interpretation of Absecon Lighthouse and other historic resources, while advocat­ing the completion of Inlet devel­opment plans.

With the construction of Revel Entertainment just a block away, we look forward to a time when pedestrians on the famed Atlantic City boardwalk will notice Absecon Lighthouse, and find their way to the most bril­liant light of all in Atlantic City, one that’s been “turned on” for 151 years. We invite you to find your way and experience a true adventure in history.

For information on our events, please call the Absecon Lighthouse at 609-449-1360, or visit our web at www.abseconlighthouse.org