Is History Worth Preserving? Cape May NJ says “YES”

Many governments are debating over preserving the Historical parts of cities, homes, or other historically registered landmarks when the cost can be astronomical. These landmarks can cost way more than their value is worth, and local officials are debating the worth in these hard economic times. But one city at the Southern tip of New Jersey says its historical value is what saved the city.

Cape May New Jersey, located at the southernmost tip of New Jersey was a dying resort in the early 1970’s until they started marketing themselves as a national historic landmark. The city’s Victorian buildings with their gingerbread porches and unique windows and siding became nationally registered as historic and everyone started to visit. Many of the older homes near the center of town were converted into Bed & Breakfasts, and the rest is history. With a wonderful beach, great historic buildings to visit and stay, tourist started coming from all over the world to see the many architectural wonders.

Today, Cape May host many events throughout the year with the focus on History and the buildings that present the turn of the 20th century. Owners of these historically registered properties follow strict rules and regulations on the upkeep of the property. They must go before a board of trustees before changing the property, and that even includes exterior color changes.

These rules have paid off. Tourism is at its highest and millions flock to Cape May to see all the history that it has to offer. It is one of the most visited places in New Jersey and can be found in magazines around the world. History is what keeps Cape May such a success. Can you imagine the town without it?