By Jean Muchanic, Executive Director

Picture the Lightkeepers of the past, climbing the lighthouse tower with a gallon of oil in each hand. How they must have loved the approaching days of summer!

To keep the light shining in the winter required three and ½ gallons per night, but in the summer, it only took two gallons of oil as the night was shorter, and hence, the men got more sleep. Also, the sun sets at a different angle during the summer, and the golden setting sun casts a deep orange glow over the yellow and black lighthouse tower. It’s quite beautiful.

Around the turn of the 20th century a greenhouse was built to supply the lighthouse property with plants and flowers, without the official sanction of the federal lighthouse board. Once discovered, the board directed that the greenhouse and gardens they supply be abolished, saving about $700 a year in operating costs. By then, the gardens had become a much-loved institution and the community protested vehemently. But even the intervention of New Jersey’s congressmen and senators could not sway the lighthouse board, and the gardens and the greenhouse disappeared from the site to be replaced by lawn surrounded by a low hedge.

Now Absecon Lighthouse is surrounded by a two-acre park with benches, and yes, a low hedge. We invite you to visit our history museum, gift shop, and climb the lighthouse tower, which was first lit in 1857. Parking is free and leashed dogs are welcome. Have a picnic on our lawn and walk to the ocean to collect some shells. Experience family time while learning about maritime history. Put Absecon Lighthouse on your summer list of family fun!

Absecon Lighthouse Summer Hours

Open every day June 24 through September 7, 10am to 5pm.

Wacky Wednesdays

Offered every summer, Wacky Wednesdays are themed fun-filled days geared towards children ages 8-12, and include snacks, games, crafts & stories, and of course a climb to the top! Admission is $10 per child and $5 per adult. Program runs 11am to 3pm.

July 22 Myths of Mermaids

July 29 Prizes of Pirates

August 5 Secrets of Sailors

August 12 Victorian Tea Party

August 19 Prizes of Pirates

For more information call Stephanie Carr, Director of Education Programs at 609-449-1360.

Special Message from the Inlet Public Private Association, Inc.

Like many cultural institutions, Absecon Lighthouse is experiencing a challenging fiscal situation. Our non-profit organization, the Inlet Public Private Association, Inc., oversees the care, interpretation, and operations at Absecon Lighthouse. We are so grateful for the support of the community, and encourage everyone in Atlantic County to visit this magnificent 152 year-old lighthouse, which is New Jersey’s tallest, and the country’s third tallest. If you are having a “staycation” this year, please include us on your list of “must-see” attractions at the jersey shore. We would also welcome financial contributions to keep the light shining for generations to come. Donations can be made to Absecon Lighthouse, and mailed to 31 S. Rhode Island Ave., Atlantic City, NJ 08401.

With our sincere regards to you and your family,

The Board of Trustees

Louis B. Paludi, President
Russell Wilcox, Vice President
Edna Hall, Vice President
Richard Veit, Vice President
Celest Abdel-Baaith, Treasurer
Susan K. Jones, Secretary
William A. Cradle
Gwen Demones
Joseph J. McDevitt
Joseph Polillo
Dennis M. Ricci
Dorothy Egrie Wilcox