Hereford Inlet Lighthouse | Wildwood

The Hereford Inlet Lighthouse is an iconic historical and architectural landmark located in North Wildwood, New Jersey, standing as a symbol of maritime heritage on the Jersey Shore. Situated at 111 North Central Avenue, this lighthouse has been a crucial navigational aid for vessels entering Hereford Inlet, guiding ships safely through treacherous waters since the late 19th century.

Historical Background and Construction

Constructed in 1874, the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse was designed by Paul J. Pelz, a notable architect best known for designing the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. The lighthouse was commissioned by the U.S. Lighthouse Board to mark the entrance of Hereford Inlet, a narrow and shifting waterway characterized by dangerous sandbars and strong currents that posed significant hazards to maritime navigation.

The structure itself is a distinctive example of Victorian-era lighthouse architecture. The tower stands 57 feet tall and is built on sturdy wooden pilings, carefully engineered to withstand the coastal elements. It features a square base and was originally painted in a buff color, which has been meticulously preserved to maintain its historical appearance.

Architectural and Technical Features

Originally, the lighthouse was equipped with a fourth-order Fresnel lens-a highly advanced optical device of its time, which concentrated light into a powerful beam visible from long distances. This lens was instrumental in guiding ships safely at night and in poor visibility conditions. In 2018, the Fresnel lens was replaced by a modern VRB-25 beacon, which continues to serve as an active navigational light visible up to 13 nautical miles offshore. The beacon is maintained by the United States Coast Guard, ensuring the lighthouse’s continued operational status.

Challenges and Preservation

Throughout its history, the lighthouse has endured multiple challenges. In 1913, a severe storm damaged its foundation, forcing engineers to relocate the entire structure approximately 150 feet west to protect it from erosion and rising tides. In 1938, a fire severely damaged the lighthouse, but thanks to the quick action of the lighthouse keeper, the building was saved from complete destruction.

The lighthouse was officially decommissioned in 1964 when advances in navigational technology made the original light less critical. However, local preservationists rallied to save the structure from neglect and demolition. Their efforts culminated in the restoration of the lighthouse and its reopening to the public in 1982. In recognition of its historical significance, the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.

Visitor Experience and Surroundings

Today, the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse functions as both a museum and a cultural landmark. Visitors are invited to tour the lighthouse and its keeper’s quarters, gaining insight into the daily life of lighthouse keepers in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum offers exhibits detailing the lighthouse’s history, technology, and its crucial role in maritime safety along the Jersey Shore.

One of the standout features of the site is the surrounding gardens, which began development in 1986. These gardens have become a horticultural attraction in their own right, boasting over 170 varieties of plants. Blooming from spring through late fall, with peak displays from early June to mid-July, the gardens provide a serene and colorful setting that complements the historic lighthouse. The gardens have garnered recognition in various publications for their beauty and ecological value.

Practical Information for Visitors

Location: The lighthouse is located at 111 North Central Avenue, North Wildwood, NJ 08260, making it easily accessible from nearby beaches and town centers.

Operating Hours: From mid-May through mid-October, the lighthouse is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. During the off-season (mid-October to mid-May), it operates Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, allowing visitors ample opportunity to explore during most of the year.

Admission: Entry to the lighthouse and its grounds is free, encouraging a broad audience to experience its historical and cultural offerings.

Parking: Convenient on-site parking is available for visitors, simplifying access for tourists and local residents.

Contact: For additional information or to plan group visits, the lighthouse can be reached by phone.

Significance and Legacy

The Hereford Inlet Lighthouse stands not only as a functional maritime beacon but also as a preserved monument to the craftsmanship, technology, and history of the coastal region. It embodies the spirit of coastal communities that depended heavily on maritime trade and travel. The lighthouse’s preservation, museum programming, and beautiful gardens make it an enriching destination for history enthusiasts, families, and visitors interested in the natural and cultural heritage of the New Jersey shore.

The site’s blend of historical architecture, operational significance, and natural beauty ensures the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse remains a treasured landmark and an enduring beacon-both literally and symbolically-for generations to come.