Photo courtesy of Cape May MAC
Shown here, Santa Claus pulls the switch as the guest of honor to light up the huge estate tree at the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Physick Estate. Don’t miss this year’s event from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 23.
Christmas arrives in Victorian Cape May with great fanfare during Holiday Preview Weekend in Cape May, Nov. 22-24, presented by Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture). The weekend launches six weeks of tours, activities and events especially for the Christmas season. For tickets and more information CLICK HERE.
It’s a yearly Cape May tradition and kicks off the holiday season! Santa Claus, himself,
flips the switch and illuminates the huge evergreen Christmas tree on the grounds of the historic 1879 Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. during the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Saturday, Nov. 23, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Everyone is welcome! Visitors of all ages are invited to this annual tradition outdoors on the grounds of the estate, a thrilling start to the holiday
(CONTINUED ON PAGE 13)
Our Cape May MAC colleagues have worked steadily and creatively this year on developing new interpretations of holiday tours, and now the tours are ready! Take one of these newly-designed offerings this holiday and make your Cape May Christmas experience even more engaging this season.
• All That Glitters: Victorians Ring
In A New Century Step aboard the trolley for this 30-minute ride around Cape May and
parts of West Cape May and you will appreciate how the passage of a new year has always sparked traditions of renewal and revival. The setting: it’s the winter holiday season in the late Victorian age. You will be regaled with festive snippets about New Year celebrations, including superstitions to assure prosperity and good fortune in the new year. You’ll learn how Victorians would have spent the winter holidays, hearing then and now
(CONTINUED ON PAGE 12)
Photo courtesy of Cape May MAC
Shown here, one of the highlights of the Cape May holiday season is Cape May MAC’s Christmas Candlelight House Tours, a walking tour on three evenings, Dec. 7, 14 and 21, in which more than a dozen inns, homes, hotels, churches and museums open their doors and welcome visitors. Hurry! Tickets sell out quickly! It’s a Cape May tradition!
miss the highlight of the Christmas season in Victorian Cape May, America’s only National Historic Landmark City! Stroll and be merry along gaslit streets and visit more than a dozen homes, inns, B&Bs, churches and hotels seeing lovely interiors decorated for the holiday. This self-guided
Come to Cape May, N.J. and enjoy the crisp night air and strolling carolers as you walk through the historic district and are welcomed inside historic homes, churches, museums, and inns to see beautifully decorated interiors. Don’t miss this highlight of the holiday season in Cape May, the Christmas Candlelight House Tours, presented this 51st year by Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture.)
don’t worry. Most properties are clustered within a 20-minute walk in the Historic District with some just a few minutes from each other! Included is the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate, Cape May’s only Victorian House Museum, decorated in authentic Victorian style, as well as the Old-Fashioned Christmas Exhibit with its extensive collection of Dept. 56 Dickens Village beneath the boughs of the gigantic Christmas tree in the Carriage House on the Estate grounds. TicketsOrder Today!
A large selection of historic properties open their doors and welcome visitors to share the warmth and hospitality of the season during these popular, self-guid-
Saturdays, Dec. 7, 14, & 21 5:30-8:30 PM
The Cape May Lighthouse has been a happening place this Fall, entertaining nearly 10,000 visitors during this period. We offered Full Moon Climbs and Stairways to the Stars in September, October and November, participated in the 25th annual Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey (October 19 & 20) and celebrated its 165th birthday on October 31. During the Lighthouse Challenge Weekend, we hosted 1,576 people. The Challenge included 11 lighthouses, 3 lifesaving stations and one museum, from Sandy Hook to Cape May and back up the Delaware Bay to Paulsboro. Cape May Lighthouse was the ending point for 67 people, the most people who completed their challenge with us. Over the course of the weekend, we had visitors from 24 different states as well as four different countries. Guests traveling the farthest came from France and the Dominican Republic. Our thanks go to the 10 volunteers who joined us for the weekend, contributing 41 volunteer hours. Our thanks also go to Lighthouse Keeper Janie McNutt whose painted souvenir shells brought in nearly $400 in donations to the Lighthouse during the Challenge Weekend and nearly $1,400 overall during the 2024 season.
Realizing that food and beverage events bring appreciative audiences, we offered a Wine Trail in September and a Beer Trail in October, both of which were sold out. We also offered a Fall series of Murder Mystery Dinners at the Chalfonte Hotel. Bumped Off and Bottoms Up, written and directed by
Cape May Lighthouse Keeper Janie McNutt has an artistic side. She collects and decorates shells for visitors to enjoy and purchase, as an ongoing fundraiser for Cape May MAC. Over the summer, her shells raised $1,000 for the organization and over the Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey weekend, they raised $319. Shown here, a family of visitors enjoyed choosing which shells to purchase during the National Lighthouse Day celebration Aug. 7.
Jackie Fazio, was as popular this Fall as it had been in the Spring.
Ghosts and spirits continue to be a strong draw, and we gave visitors lots of options this Fall. The Ghosts of Cape May Trolley Tour, which is offered year-round, is always popular but as we move into the Halloween season, we expand our offerings. Psychic medium Craig McManus joins us each Fall, leading Channeling Dinners,
Published by Cape May MAC, a not-for-profit corporation P.O. Box 340, Cape May, NJ 08204 • Phone: 609-884-5404 New Jersey Relay Center for TTY Customers: 800-852-7899 Web Site: www.capemaymac.org • E-Mail: info@capemaymac.org
Editor: Jody Alessandrine • Assistant Editor: Jean Barraclough
Contributors: Sandra Adams, Maria Amin, Susan Krysiak, Anna Marie Leeper, Eliza Lotozo, Mary E. Stewart
OUR MISSION
Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) is a multifaceted not-for-profit organization committed to promoting the preservation, interpretation, and cultural enrichment of the Cape May region for its residents and visitors.
---- v ----
OUR VISION
Preserving Cape May’s rich heritage and assuring its vitality through superior cultural programs and events
and Ghosts Walks. All of his events, no matter the time of year, are a hot ticket. Beth and Frank Acker opened their private home, for a series of Cherry House Haunting Tours. Voices from Beyond, featuring electronic voice phenomena recorded in the Physick House, and Graveyard, Ghosts, and Mansion Tours both had solid audiences.
IT Manager Cathy Baldacchini marshalled her volunteers to organize Scarecrow Alley again this year. She offered scarecrow building workshops, provided supplies and successfully filled the Physick Estate grounds with an assortment of scary and silly scarecrows. We had an impressive 1,219 votes cast for Scarecrow Alley Contest entries. Congratulations and thank you to everyone who entered. Here are the winners by category:
• People’s Choice Award (most votes overall): Cub Scout Pack 87 – Flipping for Scouts
• Individual/Family: Jack & Jane Bradley –Octavia Skeletos
• Munchkin: Charlotte & Jackson Dufner –Out of the Bluey
• Business: The Madd Potter Studio - Ghost Reenactment
• Non-profits, churches, clubs, scouts: Gar-
Mrs. Claus comes direct from the North Pole to lead this tour! She tells stories and leads holiday songs on this jolly holiday trolley ride through town. Santa joins the fun at the Gazebo on the grounds of the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate. Begins and ends at the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., with free parking available. For ticket information, CLICK HERE.
The wonders of the season are on display at “An Old-Fashioned Christmas Exhibit: Holiday Traditions through the Years,” in the Carroll Gallery, at the Carriage House on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. Experience an exhibit of holiday traditions complete with a giant Christmas tree, a Dept. 56 Dickens Village, model trains, nostalgic photos from Christmas past and more. Admission is free. Daily except Thanksgiving and Christmas. CLICK HERE for hours of operation.
You’ll enjoy Christmas music and hear the history of Victorian Christmas traditions on this evening trolley ride to see the holiday lights. Bring a lap blanket to keep warm or snuggle with a loved one and get into the spirit of Christmas with friends and family on one of Cape May’s most popular holiday trolley tours. Tour begins and ends at the trolley stop on Ocean Street. For ticket information, CLICK HERE.
Share a delicious breakfast with family and friends and welcome special guest Santa Claus, himself, as he drops in at the Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean St., and greets guests, on select dates leading up to Christmas. There will be time for photos and sharing of wish lists. Event is limited. For ticket information, CLICK HERE.
(Now also in Spanish! Búsqueda Del Tesoro De La Mansión Physick) or Cape May Family Treasure Hunt
Discover the fun of exploring historic Cape May or the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate and uncovering architectural elements from a kid’s perspective. Each packet contains a clues sheet and map that will take you on a self-guided discovery tour, set to your own pace (answer sheet included). Donations accepted.
(CONTINUED ON PAGE 4)
& Learn: Why the Cape May Bubble is Real and our Winter 24-25
Presenter: Meteorologist Joe Martucci
Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 12 noon
Cape May is known to miss the big thunderstorms and the heaviest snowstorms. Meteorologist Joe Martucci, Certified Broadcast and Digital Meteorologist, is coming to talk about the scientific research that backs up the folklore of the “Cape May Bubble” and our 2024-2025 winter outlook. This program will be in the church, so no food is allowed. REGISTER FOR ZOOM in advance.
Presenter: Dr. Brenda Leonard
Wednesday, Dec. 4 at 12 noon
‘Tis the season when we hear lots of music from Handel’s Messiah. But there’s much more from this titan of Baroque music, whose compositions bridged the sacred and secular. Dr. Brenda Leonard will look at his formative years in Germany, his transformative sojourn in Italy, and his triumphant legacy in England. REGISTER FOR ZOOM in advance.
Lunch & Learn: From Carols to Cats: Worldwide Christmas
Presenter: Ben Ridings
Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 12 noon
MAC Curator Ben Ridings explores how different cultures around the globe celebrate this joyous season through unique customs, from Germany’s Christkindlmarkts to Mexico’s vibrant Las Posadas. Discover the rich tapestry of traditions that unite us in the spirit of Christmas across continents and centuries. REGISTER FOR ZOOM in advance.
Also, Cape May equity theaters present these wonderful holiday productions! The East Lynne Theater Company presents “Lennie’s Christmas Extravaganza.” CLICK HERE for ticket information.
Cape May Stage presents “The Gift of the Magi.” CLICK HERE for ticket information.
Plus, Whale & Dolphin Watching boat tours. For ticket information CLICK HERE. Tickets for all tours and events may be purchased online at capemaymac.org or by visiting 9am to 5pm or calling the Emlen Physick Estate Hill House Visitor Services Office at 609-884-5404.
(CONTINUED ON PAGE 4)
For those looking for a festive daytime tour, the Holiday Inns Tour is your ticket to step inside several Cape May properties decorated for the holidays with garland, bows, trees and more. Capture the Christmas spirit as you see inside these Cape May landmark properties during the holiday season. This is a self-guided tour, so please bring your ticket to the Washington Street Mall Information Booth located at the junction of Washington and Ocean Streets and get a copy of the map. A trolley shuttle makes a continuous loop during this self-guided afternoon tour. For ticket information, CLICK HERE.
See inside a selection of Cape May bed & breakfast inns and private homes, specially decorated for the holidays on this self-guided evening walking tour that includes a visit to An Old-fashioned Christmas Exhibit in the Carroll Gallery at the Physick Estate Carriage House. For ticket information, CLICK HERE.
Cape May County vineyards produce delicious wines and here is your chance to enjoy them with round-trip transportation via Cape May MAC trolley. Board the trolley Saturday, Dec. 28 at 10:45am at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. for this all-day, festive holiday adventure and travel to Bellevue Tavern in Cape May Court House for a satisfying lunch. Then it’s back on board the trolley for an afternoon of touring and sampling wine selections by vintners at Jessie Creek Winery and Natali Vineyards. Guests will receive a souvenir tasting glass at Jessie Creek Winery and an educational tasting and tour at Natali Vineyards. This event is for adults ages 21 and over. For ticket information, CLICK HERE
Winter is here again, and the Harrison children have poured their attention into planning every last detail for their parent’s annual Christmas party, but when an heirloom necklace goes missing, the entire holiday season is threatened! Can you help the family find the missing jewels, or will this Christmas season go down as the worst one yet? Visitors will step inside Cape May’s Victorian House Museum, the 1879 Physick House Museum, and encounter the characters as this original story unfolds. Don’t miss stepping into this holiday story in this very special Cape May setting. Accessible with advance notice. For ticket information, CLICK HERE.
(CONTINUED ON PAGE 5)
Complete your holiday gift-giving list during the Holiday Crafts & Collectibles Shows and at Cape May’s renowned museum and online shops. Stop into the Museum Shops on Museum Store Sunday, Dec. 1, to support our unique mission. Shop for unique hand-made gifts and seasonal decorations during Holiday Crafts & Collectibles Show, over two days, Friday, Nov. 29 and Saturday, Nov. 30 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Cape May Convention Hall, Beach Avenue at Stockton. Admission is $2.
“Sherlock holmeS & The Familiar Face” Nov. 23-24
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s master sleuth, Sherlock Holmes, and his loyal friend Dr. John Watson, follow the clues in an original mystery, “Sherlock Holmes and the Familiar Face,” by Jacklyn Fazio. Sherlock faces a difficult decision when a former adversary is accused of a heinous crime. Will our favorite investigative team help to prove their former adversary innocent, or determine that they’ve been guilty all along? Join in and follow the story as the mystery unfolds. Get into the spirit and dress in Victorian attire! Stalk the gaslit streets in search of clues and compete for the grand prize valued at $300 and a variety of other valuable gifts as you attempt to solve the mystery. Advance purchase required. Significant discounts on La Mer Beachfront Resort accommodations are available by booking online via capemaymac.org. CLICK HERE for more information. Weekend overnight packages are available. LaMer Beachfront Resort, 1317 Beach Ave., Cape May. To purchase tickets, CLICK HERE.
(CONTINUED ON FOLLOWING PAGE)
In previous Holiday Newsletter issues I’ve told how much Cape May and Cape May MAC’s Christmas programming has been a traditional part of our family’s holiday calendar each year. And that began 25 years before I even became a Cape May MAC employee!
What makes Cape May special each holiday season likely differs for most, because there is so much going on. From the Saturday before Thanksgiving through the New Year, Cape May MAC alone has over 600 tours and events—something for people of all ages, seven days a week.
Cape May not only transforms itself into a Dickens novel from late November until early January, but the City, Cape May MAC, businesses and business organizations, and private homeowners, collectively light up the community. And not simply with bright lights, but with a welcoming spirit, making this place not just any seaside attraction, but one that truly embodies whatever people are celebrating this time of year.
For Christians, of course it’s Christmas. The belief that the son of God is born so that his eventual death and resurrection would enable humans to be reconciled and thus be offered salvation and eternal life. Jesus, the Christ, being the “light of the world.” For Jewish people, Hanukkah commemorates the recovery of Jerusalem and rededication of the Second Temple. It is celebrated for
(CONTINUED FROM PRECEDING PAGE)
Vintage Restaurant, on the beautiful grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, offers an eclectic menu for brunch and dinner. Call 609–224–6064 for reservations and takeout orders or CLICK HERE. Vintage is dogfriendly, has plenty of seating with views of the Physick Estate, and take-out is available. Parking is free. Open Friday through Sunday for dinner, 5pm-8:30pm and Saturday, Sunday for brunch 10am-2pm through Nov. 24 and Dec. 6-29. For more information CLICK HERE.
Explore the light this holiday! Climb the 199 steps up the original, cast-iron spiral stairway to the top of the 1859 Cape May Lighthouse and see a staggering view of the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean, the surrounding nature trails of Cape May Point State Park, and
Jody Alessandrine, Director/CEO
eight days, occurring anytime between late November to late December, during which one of the candles on a nine-branched candelabrum (menorah) is lit. The branch candle is used to light the other eight. Kwanzaa, the annual celebration of African American culture that lasts for seven days (starting on Dec. 26), with each day dedicated to seven different principles. It, too, features a candelabrum on which a new candle is lit daily. Christian African Americans often celebrate
both Kwanzaa and Christmas. Then there is HumanLight, the secular Humanist celebration held on December 23. It celebrates the expression of human values, such as reason, compassion and hope— and a candle is lit for each value.
Obviously, the common thread is light, and not coincidentally, all happen around the Winter Solstice, Dec. 21, when light conquers darkness and hours of daylight begin to increase. Pagan Germanic peoples started celebrating this, the “Yule,” as early as the 5th-6th Century CE.
I haven’t travelled much, but I’ve lived in a few places known for their degree of tourism, where a sense of welcoming and hospitality is essential. The attractions differ a bit — beach, ocean, and boardwalk; mountains, university-life and college football; and vibrant downtowns. All have embodied the bright spirit of all those aforementioned holidays. But you’d be hard-pressed to find a place that does so to the degree done by Cape May. It’s both humbling and reassuring that we at Cape May MAC contribute so significantly to shining and spreading all that light for locals and our guests, making it one of the busiest and happiest times of the year, every year. Some say you’ll feel that sense of brightness here all year long. I couldn’t agree more.
Cape May Point Borough. Interpretive panels on the grounds, at the base and on the climb tell stories of Lighthouse Keepers, the surrounding area, and how the lighthouse functioned historically and today. The Cape May Lighthouse is the third beacon at this location. Still an active aid to navigation, it was restored and is maintained by Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture). Since Cape May MAC opened it to the public in 1988, more than 2.5 million visitors have climbed to the top. The Cape May Lighthouse is listed in the State and National Registers of Historic Places. Open 12pm-4pm Friday through Sunday through Dec. 22 and daily Dec. 26-Jan. 4. For more information, CLICK HERE.
“Routes of Black Travel: The Green Book in Cape May and Wildwood”
Discover the routes of travel to Cape May and Wildwood for Black vacationers during the Jim Crow era. Learn what it was like to travel as a Black person when the country was segregated by race and how The Green Book was invaluable for helping keep people safe from harm and racial violence. Jan. 20-March 23.
Don’t miss all there is to do in Cape May during the week between Christmas and New Years! Check out our calendar. It’s packed with things to do!
This year’s Cape May MAC (Museums+ Arts+Culture) Honor Award is given to Madison Resorts, operators of The Montreal Beach Resort and Harry’s Restaurant in Cape May. The resort has given the organization financial backing along with 1,000 hours of volunteer service and support since 2021.
“We nominated Madison Resorts for the Cape May MAC Honor Award this year because of their outstanding, ongoing support and strong commitment to Cape May MAC,” said Director and CEO Jody Alessandrine. “They have been stalwarts in the form of volunteer work and financial support of the organization. From beautifying the Emlen Physick Estate on Earth Day, to helping support our Harvest Brew Fest, we have come to view them as a steady partner in every way. Their staff shows up en masse and within hours we have completed important tasks that otherwise would have taken us days or weeks. We can’t thank them enough for all they have done for the organization. Cape May MAC thanks Dan and his team, looks forward to continuing this valued partnership, and is happy to bestow its annual Honor Award upon Madison Resorts.”
Since taking ownership in late 2021, Madison Resorts President & CEO Dan Alicea and his entire staff have continued the Hirsch Family’s (previous owners’) tradition as dedicated partners with Cape May MAC. Madison Resorts generously co-sponsors Cape May MAC’s annual Harvest Brew Festival, has connected the organization with Home Depot grants for the Lighthouse grounds plantings and improvements, has been loyal print and trolley advertisers, and has had staff volunteer on many occasions, especially for Cape May MAC’s annual Earth Day efforts.
Interestingly, Dan’s wife Stephanie’s grandfather, Dave Yeager, was a longstanding Cape May Lighthouse Keeper for Cape May MAC. A plaque in Dave’s memory graces the first floor, and a photo of him with the original lantern lens is in lantern room of the Lighthouse. Their family’s ties with Cape May MAC run deep.
“Our number one core value is to keep the community first in our heart and so every community that we’re in, we want to give back,” said Alicea. “Cape May MAC just offers so many different opportunities throughout the course of the year that we can get our team members involved in,” he said. “So, for example Harvest Brew Fest. We love setting things up. We love Earth Day when we plant all the flowers. It’s just
by Susan Krysiak Shown here, volunteers from Madison Resorts helped with set-up for the Harvest Brew Fest this year: Robert Pattillo, Justin Mogavero, Paul Gates, Brian Jones, Aspasia Bournousouzis, Stacy McNeill and Kim Constantine. Also shown, Cape May MAC Director and CEO Jody Alessandrine thanks Madison Resorts President and CEO Dan Alicea at the Harvest Brew Fest Saturday, Sept. 14.
fun, and you know, our team really, really enjoys it.”
Madison team members enjoy being surrounded by history on projects and learning more about Cape May by volunteering for example, on Cape May Christmas Candlelight House Tours.
“We have a lot of people who are local to Cape May and love the history of the town. When volunteering, we get to walk around the house and hear the ghost stories, too. Everyone just really enjoys that. You learn something new every day, volunteering or
working here. Whenever I volunteer, myself, for the Christmas Candlelight House Tour, I’m like, ‘Oh, I had no idea!’”
Madison Resorts puts their mission of commitment to community into their managerial policies. Staff are asked to commit a certain number of hours to community projects each year.
“We’re walking the walk,” said Alicea. “A lot of people could talk the talk. We want to be able to walk the walk and for our team members to be able to see that, ‘Hey — wow — it really is important’.”
Family/Grandparent: Steven Gettle & Tabatha Wernick of Estell Manor, NJ; DebbieJoy Polacik & Donielle Radoslovich of Hamilton, NJ.
Joint: Mark & Robyn Araujo of Lyndhurst, NJ; Bryan & Victoria Baber of South River, NJ; Richard & Patricia Dougherty of Ardmore, PA; Jane Gonzales & Ken Heath of Cape May Court House, NJ; Mike & Joy Harris of Villas, NJ; Matthew & Ashley Homer of Millersburg, PA; Raymond & Dona Kacerek of Cape May Court House, NJ; Charles & Vivienne Kramer of Cedar Brook, NJ; Tina
Lawson & Tim Castello of West Chester, PA; William & Diane Nordt of Charles City, VA; Brian & Doreen Ringers of Southampton, PA; John & Michelina Robb of Oakland, NJ; Paul & Cheryl Szyarto of West Cape May, NJ; Jerry Tarnoff of West Orange, NJ.
Individual: Judith Bertotto of Cape May, NJ; Jennifer Kramer of Cape May, NJ; Christine Gaudry of North Cape May, NJ; Courtney Hahn of Arlington, VA; Michele Hubmaster of Cape May Court House, NJ; Sheryl Ketchum of Cape May, NJ; Anne Santini of Briarcliff Manor, NY.
Warmest wishes for a speedy recovery to:
Long-time Cape May Mac Interpreter Joyce Barth; Cape May MAC Registar Donna Szemcsak; Cape May MAC Chief Outreach Strategist Mary Stewart
Heartiest congratulations to: Cape May MAC CFO Charlie Kealy and his wife Margaret, on the marriage of their son Charles and Silvana Goberdhan-Vigle; Mark Kulkowitz and Pam Huber, on the marriage of their son Kyle Kulkowitz and Joanna Giouros
Deepest condolences to:
The family and friends of Edward Rick Doering.
Cape May MAC Tour Guide Karen
and husband Alan donated a very large flag to Cape May MAC this fall for use on its grounds. Shown here, from left, Karen Maguire, Maintenance Director Michael Millison, Director and CEO Jody Alessandrine, and Volunteer Coordinator Maria Amin.
• $2,000 and up Donors: Warren & Janet Coupland, Tom & Peg Curran, Dane & Joan Wells.
• $1,000-$1,999 Donors: Christopher & Betty Marlowe, Audrey & Bill Schwab, Barry Sharer, Marc & Lauren Shenfield.
• $500-$999 Donors: Louis Dicriscio & Nova Aherns, Joseph & Elizabeth Garner, Robert & Gina Greenwood, Roger Henry.
• $250-$499 Donors: Christine Cosenza, Martyn & Grete Greenacre, Anthony & Lucy Guerrino, John & Ann Kosco, Charles & Ellen Mansueto, William & Mina Parker, Jim Yingst & Pixie Angelo.
• $100-$249 Donors: Joseph & Cheryl Alessandrine, Thomas & Barbara Atherton, Bernard & Mary Bernacki, Frank & Kimberly Blough, Rowen Blue, Susan Borger, Edward & Mary Claire Cancelmo, John Carroll, Chin Up, LLC, Mark & Cynthia Coller, Raymond & Maryanne Czajkowski, Rosalie DiBianca, Wister & Joy Dougherty, Thomas & Elizabeth Dupree, Kenneth & Nancy Durkin, Charles Eck & Clare Sapienza-Eck, Kevin Furguson, William & Margaret Flanagan, Ron Frech, R. J. Scott Griffith, Alexander & Mary Elizabeth Hager, Adam & Mary Hauser, Scott & Nancy Holland, Kevin & Debby Kilkenny, Steven & Lori Lazan, Deborah Ludlow, Alphonse & Martha Maffeo, Joe Mammarella & Deborah Bianchi (In Memory of Naomi Mammarella), Mark & Caroline McClendon, Wayne & Joyce Monsees, James & Diane Morton, MaryAnn Mosso, John & Donna Nansteel, Howard & Barbara Neilson, John & Jennifer Ochman, William Paladini & Pamela Nardone, Joe & Antoinette Pedano, Kim Piechuta, Margot Putukian, Queen Victoria Bed & Breakfast, John Quigley, Lisa Rebert, Maria Repici & Tom Quigg, Jane Roddy, Art & Elaine Rottger, Gregory & Natalie Roy, Michael & Theresa Schmal, Brian & Patricia Shanley, Alessandro & Gail Smeraldi, Karen Smith, Joseph Vogler, Dennis & Rita Wade, Ethan Wenstrom, Dennis & Susan Yankosky.
• Under $100 Donors: Jim & Eileen Alesi, Jim Allax, Phillip Armstrong, Frank & Sue Barber, Kevin & Maryellen Bly, Patricia Bulwith, Lori Butera, Terrence & Bonnie Callaghan, Carla Capizzi, Joseph & Marianne Catagnus, Tom & Debbie Cutler, Joseph & Pamela Decato, Walter & Anna Deforest, Carol Farrar, Ray & Barbara Fuentes, How-
Award-winning author and professor, distinguished historian and acclaimed speaker Dr.
Symonds presented “The War Comes Home to America: U-boats off the Mid-Atlantic” to a soldout crowd on Sunday, Oct. 13 at Cape May Convention Hall. It was the 12th lecture in Cape May MAC’s annual Lessons of History Distinguished Lecture Series and included a lively Q&A session after the lecture. An added feature for accessibility was Emily Krause, interpreting for the deaf community. This year also included special recognition for series founder Dr. Myles Martel who retires this year.
ard Gibb, Joseph & Susan Greco, William & Jean Hill, Richard Iazzetta, Harry & Linda Leaming, Dolly Mabin & Jimmy Perciante, Bruce Madden, Eugene & Maria Mancuso, Anthony & Karen Manzo, Raymond & Gretchen Maysek, Jerry & Sharon Miller, Joe & Diane Nadolski, Rainer & Mary Newman, Kevin & Sally O’Brien, Joe Palimeno, Thomas & Ellen Palumbo, Barbara Parker & Thomas Andaloro, Alyce Parker, Mary Peckiconis & William Copp, Anthony & Eileen Raguseo, Richard Renza, Jean Richardson, Jeff & Susan Rocke, Peter & Joann Sanso, Gary Snyder & Deborah Wiegand Snyder, Michael & Martha Torpey, Phil & Catherine Tumminia, Ed Unger, Noel Whelan, Joan Yetzer, Peggy Zemaitaitis.
CAPE MAY MAC PRESERVATION FUND
• $100-$499 Friend Donors: Gerard & Phyllis Brew, Donna Flegal, John Reilly, SiracusaKaufmann Insurance Agency.
• Under $100 Donors: Bob Bailey, Mary Anne Mistick.
LESSONS OF HISTORY FUND DONATIONS
• $1,000-$1,999 Donors: David Green & Christine Petrik-Green.
• $250-$499 Donors: Lance & Bonnie Pontin, Craig & Marylou Symonds.
• $100-$249 Donors: Avi Eden, Ron Frech, Stephen & Susan Irving, Jeanne Kelly, Richard Klein, Eric & Christine Thorkildsen, Mary & Sandy Stewart, Bud & Jill Waisbren, Karol Wasylyshyn.
• Under $100 Donors: Randi Deweese, Robert & Marie Fredericks.
CAPE MAY MUSIC FESTIVAL DONORS
• Duo Sponsor ($2,000-$3,999): Brown & Brown of NJ.
MAJOR DONATIONS
• Coldwell Banker Sol Needles, for a $500 donation to the Physick Estate Restoration Fund.
• Warren & Janet Coupland, for a $4,000 donation to the Physick Estate Curatorial Department.
• Brian & Jessica Groetsch, for an in-kind donation of a meeting table & chairs.
• Becky Kriebel, for a $500 donation to Operations.
• Dane & Joan Wells, for a $500 donation to the Cape May Lighthouse in memory of John Bailey.
The Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey weekend Oct. 19-20 was another huge success and celebrated its 25th year! Challengers traveled up and down and across the state visiting 11 lighthouse sites, three lifesaving stations, and one museum over the two-day weekend. Shown here, from left, at the Cape May Lighthouse are Cape May MAC staff, friends and volunteers: Christine Gaudry, Nanci Coughlin, Steve Murray, Rosemary Rombado, Carol Hartman, Therese Porzio-Kwiecinski and Carole Ulmer. A total of 1,576 challenge participants visited the Cape May Lighthouse over the two days. Many climbed the lighthouse, in addition to the 440 who climbed and were not part of the Challenge. A wonderful coincidence: 67 people started the challenge at the Cape May Lighthouse and 67 finished the challenge here. Visitors came from 24 different states and four different countries/republics. Our furthest guests came from France and the Dominican Republic. Ten volunteers completed 41 volunteer hours over the two days.
• Cape May Brewery, for donating a beer koozie to a door prize basket for the Maryland Motorcoach Group Leader Travel Showcase.
• Sally Brice-O’Hara, for a donation of $349.89 to Operations.
• Robert Cunningham, for a $20 donation to the Physick Estate Restoration Fund.
• Susan Gibson, for donating a basket and ribbon to a door prize basket for the Maryland Motorcoach Group Leader Travel Showcase.
• Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey, for donating a Lighthouse Challenge T-shirt to a door prize basket for the Maryland Motorcoach Group Leader Travel Showcase.
• Lucky Bones Restaurant, for donating cookbooks for Lucky Bones and the Washington Inn to a door prize basket for the Maryland Motorcoach Group Leader Travel Showcase.
• Linda Morris, for a $30 donation to Operations.
• Rosemary Rombado, for donating a decorative wine bottle and “Cape May” bag to a door prize basket for the Maryland Motorcoach Group Leader Travel Showcase.
• Barry Sharer, for a $50 donation to Operations.
• Candy Donations for Trick or Treat at the Physick Estate: Maria Amin, Barbara Freda, David Gunkle, Barbara & Andy Lamont, Trish Nolfi, Nancy Thompson.
• Ticket Buyers who added a donation when purchasing tickets: Katie Adams, Stephanie Albright, Anna Aldhizer, Jennifer Anderson, Dolores Andrews, Vincent Angrosina, Allison Baker, Joseph Bakes, Sandra Baldino, Timothy Baldwin, Lisa Bamford, Douglas Bard, Natale Barranco, Jenna Baum, Tom Brady, Joanna Beitler, Brenda Beitler, Steve Belz, Nancy Benz, Jeannette Berkley, Judith Bertotto, Jade Billard, Stacy Biscardi, Mary Blann, Robert Bowman, Collin Bradley, Daneen Brea, Anthony Broccolo, Bill Brown, Colleen Burden, Lauren Butler, Rob Cagliola, Michael Calo, Anthony Cappo, Bridget Caprin, Nancy Cariffe, Debbie Cassi, Jena Cassidy, Kate Chiodini, Minhwa Cho, Maluisa Chua, Robin Ciaramella, Barbara Ciccotelli, Debra Clark, Deborah Clarke, Cathy Cockerill, Erin Cool, Dawn Conine, Karolin Conner, Rose Connelly, Elyse Connolly, Phil Cosentino, Santa Cot-
tone, Margo Cresci, Sarah Curcio, Hilary Cusack, Mike Daly, Corinne Daniels, Rosa Dascoli, Eileen Davis, Melissa Dawson, Lisa DeGraff, Frank Delgado, Karen Delong, Anthony Deluca, Mike DeNunzio, Peggy DePiano, Karen Diaz, Judy DiCarlo, Catherine Doolan, Tyler Duffy, Alyse Dulany, Felicita Duque, Karen Durante, Valerie Durkin, Khadijah Eaton, Willaim Ebbels, Tess Eichenberger, William Einreinhofer, Heather Estrada, John Falcone, Holly Fay, Anne Fazio, Jose Fernandez, Donna Ferri, Christine Fidanza, Erich Florentine, Lisa Flores Kevin Ford, Darla Foster, Jeanette Fox, Allyson Frank, Jonathan Frank, Lindsey Frech, Erin Fucci, Anne Gagen, Edward Gallagher, Kerri Gardi, Kimberly Gardner, Giselle Gartland, Robert Gemignani, Megan Georgetti, Joe Gerardi, Douglas Gilbert, Carol Glass, Jacqueline Golden, Gabriel Gomez, Claudia Gordon, Charles Gore, Mari-Lynn Gornik, Danielle Gotthold, Chris Gottschall, Glenn Gralley, Hannah Gribetz, Tarah Griffiths, Dawn Grillo, Michael Grim, James Groff, Sarah Guiles, Mary Guillotte, Michelle Guinane, Carly Gymnich, Theresa Hahn, Anastasia Haring, Kelly Harrison, Amanda Haskell, Kyleigh Heins, Brynne Henderson,
(CONTINUED ON PAGE 10)
using earpieces and transmitters this summer for our walking tours, allowing for a more comfortable communication experience for tourgoers and tour guides. This new Whisper technology is in place for walking tours and is now being explored for additional applications.
(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9)
Kristin Heymann, Kate Hill, Matthew Hill, Kimberly Himelright, Clint Hoffman, Richard Huff, Thomas Hyland, Dawn Iacovelli, Claudine Ignarski, Carolyn Inciardi, Carolanne Isola, Mary E Ivins, Tracy Johnson, Jeremy Kahle, Phyllis Kaiser, Phil Kaminski, Patricia Kane, Scott Kauffman, Steve Kawalek, Janice Kellett, Owen Kelly, Mary Kennon, Julia Mary Kessler, Kenneth Kistler, Tom Kitz, Lori Kohles, Kaylee Konczal, Ioanna Konstantakatou, Mike Koronkiewicz, Christopher Krulik, Randy Kullmann, Rosemarie Kulp, Lorraine Labonne-Storch, Chris Lacivita, Georgina Lally, Lisa Larks, David Larsen, Jennifer LaVance, Jennifer Ledwith, Nadia Legorreta, Ruthann Longo, Rod Lopez, Patricia Loreti, Ronan Lynch, Nancy Machon, Donna Madronal, Mr. & Mrs. Alphonse Maffeo, Susie Maguire, Nora Mainland, Anthony Maresca, Paul J. Marshall, Donald Mayer-Brown, Do-
retta McCully, Carissa McCutchen, Lucia McEntee, Brian Mcgarrity, JoAnn McLaughlin, Laurie McLaughlin, Marcee Mcmullen, John Meli, David Mennilli, Janet Michalowski, Michael Michelis, Charlie Miller, John Millspaugh, Gerard Mittleberger, Nick Moloksher, Stephanie Monahos, Michael Montague, Nicole Monte, William Moore, Linda Morris, Patricia Morse, Sheri Morton, Brooke Mueller, Melissa Myers, Jacqueline Nann, Lori Neitzel, Patricia Obrien, Robert OBrien, Hank O’Donnell, Colleen Odonnell, Suzana Oh, Susan Palmer, Mary Palumbo, Jessica Panagiotou, Lesha Parnell, Donna Pazian, Joan Peddicord, Robert Pellicone, Catherine Perge, Thomas Perrota, Stephen Perrotta, James Pfister, Amelia Piermani, Dominic Pileggi, Adrian Pinderhughes, Kristin Planck-Kuney, Grant Platz, Marianne Plucienik, Denise Pranzo, Valerie Price, Josephine Pugliese, Robert Puzio, Carly Rehmann, Lauren Reisenauer, Jennifer Reisinger,
Susan Reitz, Alisa Rhodes, Judith Rhoads, Kenneth Ritz, Hannah Rodums, Gabrielle Rosen, Brian Ruane, Harla Rudolph, Karen Russell, Jean Russo, Diana Rutter, Christine Ryan, Paula Saikali, Ann Sardella, Pamela Schafer, Shirley Schaffer, Nudith Schavrien, Scott Schroppe, Kacey Schulz, Angelo Scianni, Cynthia Scott, Shirley Shaskas, Kyle Shaw, Nancy Shaw, Danielle Sheehan, Ellen Shire, Pamela Silverio, Jeanne Simon, Mark Simpson, Pamela Sinishtaj, Kristen Smith, Sharon Smith, Bridget Smitsky, Ethan Snipas, Patricia Sparacio, Robert Spring, Nadine Spusta, Jodi Stangarone, Catherine Stellwagen, Holly Stone, Danielle Stratz, Siena Stucki, Krista Sullivan, Bridget Supka, Samantha Tantum, Kaitlyn Tanzola, Shanna Taub, Nicole Taylor, Phyllis Taylor, Doreen Templeton, Lisa Thomas, Michele Tiedemann, Matt Tomasello, Patti Topczij, Ashley Torlucci, Margaret Toth, Claudia Tuccillo, Richard Turk, Lindsey Tyler, Catherine Vantash, Lisa
The Athletic Base Ball Club of Philadelphia and the Brandywine Base Ball Club of West Chester, Pa., came to Cape May Saturday, Oct. 12 to play “base ball” using the traditional “1864 rules” and welcomed players to join them. It was a highlight of Cape May MAC’s annual Victorian Weekend. Shown here, clockwise: Cape May MAC Director and CEO Jody Alessandrine fouling-off a pitch; from left, Cape May MAC Curator Ben Ridings as Dr. Emlen Physick, with Mayor Zack Mullock, members of the Brandywine Base Ball Club and the Athletic Base Ball Club of Philadelphia, and Alessandrine; Ridings about to cross home plate.
Varone, Mary Vesnesky, Liliana Villanueva, Dylan Villela, Melissa Vince, James Vitale, Denise Walczewski, Carla Walker, Kris Ward, Brian Warrick, Christine Westra, Alayne Whalen, Betty Wiitala, Hunter Wilcox, Rob Wilson, Keri Winnick, Debra Winslow, Caitlyn Wooten, Rosemarie Young, Rick Zahn.
• Joe Asterino, for a program on building dioramas for Lunch & Learn.
• Teddy Bryan, for a program on Victorian School Days for Lunch & Learn.
• Pastor Jeff Elliott, Cape May Lutheran Church, for use of the church hall for Lunch & Learn sessions and for allowing us to park the trolleys in the church parking lot during the Washington Street repaving project.
• Mary Fox, for helping with the Underground Railroad and Welcome to Cape May Trolley Tours.
• Christine Gaudry, for help on the campground database for the Outreach Team.
• Camille Llewellyn, for administrative assistance with research and data entry.
• Ellie McDevitt, for providing cookies for the GhostS, Graveyard & Mansion Combo Tours.
• Kathy Morais, for help with brochure and poster distribution.
• Stephanie Moser, for help on the realtor database for the Outreach Team and data entry assistance for the Scarecrow Alley contest.
• Rosemary Rombado, for helping the curatorial team revamp Mrs. Ralston’s closet.
• Cape May Halloween Parade Volunteers: Janet Coupland, Eileen Coyle, Martin Coyle, Alan & Karen McGuire, Ellen DeRose, Tricia Kramer, Tricia Nolfi, Therese Porzio- Kwiecinski.
• Family Fun Day at the Lighthouse Volunteers: Sue Currie, Kelly Gray, Lena Marroletti, Carole Ulmer.
• Festival Planning Team: Tom Carroll, Tina Angstadt.
• Grounds Crew Volunteers: Tom Carroll, Rebecca Davis, JC de Haan, Robert Evelyn, Walt Gabriel, Robert Gorgone, Carol Lindsay, George Macaluso, Melissa Motz, Rick Sass, Jim Shimmala, Rita Wade, Stephen Ward, Deb Yamashita.
• Harvest Brew Festival Volunteers: Sharon Agin, Bill Angstadt, Tina Angstadt, Mike Baxter, Susan Beal, Bill Brown, Patricia Brown, Sue Carroll, Tom Carroll, Eileen Cassidy, Catherine Clark, Janet Coupland, Warren Coupland, Eileen Coyle, Martin Coyle, Jane Donnelly, Chris DuBois, Robert Evelyn, Brian Foran, Christina Fore, Walt Gabriel, Christine Gaudry, Lynne Glasser, Jean Grazel, Raymond Grazel, Scott Griffith, Carol Haggas, Kevin Hammerman, Victoria Heimall, Eunice Hudzik, Carole Irwin, Robert Irwin, Dagmar Jelincic, Bill Kearns, Colleen Kearns, Kelly Kearns, Marge Kearns, William King, Tricia Kraemer, Susan Krysiak, George Macaluso, Nora Macaluso, Debbie, Mammarella, Joe Mammarella, Nathan Mammarella, Ellie McDevitt, Karen McGuire, Mary McKenney, Diane Meza, Franco Meza, Matthew Mistkowski, Rich Mistkowski, Melissa Motz, Carey Nathan, Mark Nathan, Tricia Nolfi, B. Shamy Parker, Christopher Parker, Therese Porzio-Kwiecinski, Rosemary Rombado, Rita Rothberg, Christine Rothwell, Frank Scott, Amy Shimalla, Rich Shimalla, Carole Ulmer, Mark Wheaton, Susan Wiggins.
• Investment Team Volunteers: Lee Bellarmino, Tom Carroll, Jake Cuomo, Mary McKenney, Martin Zektzer.
• Lessons of History Team: Tom Carroll, Vince DeGiaimo, Joan Dempsey, David King, Myles Martell, Mary McKenney, Chris Traficante.
• Lessons in History Volunteers: Bill Angstadt, Tina Angstadt, Christine Fecteau, Hope Gaines, David Gunkle, Gloria Kucher, Ellie McDevitt.
• Lighthouse Challenge Volunteers: Jane Foran, Christine Gaudry, Kurt Hague, Lisa High, Steve Kirkpatrick, Terry Kirkpatrick, Jennifer Kramer, Diane Meza, Therese Porzio- Keiecinski, Carole Ulmer, Hannah Vaught.
• Madison Resorts Harvest Brew Fest Set
Up Volunteers: Aspasia Bournousouzis, Kim Constantine, Paul Gates, Brian Jones, Stacy McNeill, Justin Mogavero, Robert Pattillo.
• Membership Mailing Volunteers: Kathy Genzoli, Ruth Anne Stewart, Tricia Kraemer.
• Physick Estate Trisk or Treat Volunteers: Lori Dribbon, Terry Kirkpatrick, Steve Kirkpatrick.
• Scarecrow Alley Workshop Volunteers: Eileen Cassidy, Hope Gaines, Jean Grazel, Kelly Gray, Janet Holland, Kimberly Ivens, Theresa Kirkpatrick.
• Tour Assistants: Ellen DeRose, Theresa Kirkpatrick, Gloria Kucher.
• Trolley Maintenance Volunteers: Rebecca Davis, Camille Llewellyn, Joe Mammarella, Franco Meza, Mark Nathan, Vince Rapone, Jim Walsh, Leann Weinberger, Deb Yamashita.
• Victorian Weekend Volunteers: Janice Ablett, Sharon Agin, Tally Colson, Janet Coupland, Jean Grazel, Kathleen Janits, Stephen Kirkpatrick, Theresa Kirkpatrick, Jennifer Kramer, Camille Llewellyn, Richard Mayer, Kathy Morais.
• Volunteer Team Volunteer: Tina Angstadt.
included a variety of exciting programs and tours celebrating the history of Cape May, including a program called “For the Love of Hats” at the Inn of Cape May.
(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1)
ed, walking tours. Strolling musicians entertain throughout the area on these nights. The three Christmas Candlelight House Tours of the 2024 season are Saturdays, Dec. 7, 14 and 21, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Cape May MAC launched this evening walking tour in 1974 and ever since it has been a highlight of the holiday season in Victorian Cape May, America’s only National Historic Landmark City. Stroll along gaslit streets and visit homes, inns, B&Bs, churches and hotels, most within walking distance of each other, to see lovely interiors decorated for the holidays. This self-guided walking tour, centered in a 3/4-square-mile area of the Historic District, is Cape May MAC’s largest annual fund-raiser.
Christmas Candlelight House Tours include admission to Cape May’s authentically decorated Victorian house museum, the Emlen Physick Estate at 1048 Washington St., and the exhibit “An Old-Fashioned Christmas: Holiday Traditions through the
(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1)
stories of the lively Cape Island holiday social landscape of the time. Hear how Victorians of the late 1800s in Cape May celebrated their New Year’s holiday and learn about some of the traditions and customs of subsequent decades through today. For ticket information, CLICK HERE
On this 30-minute evening, first person living history holiday house tour, you will get to know the Physick family a bit more intimately and realize the excitement and festivity of the Christmas holidays has changed little over the centuries. The setting: interior of the 1879 Emlen Physick House, very early 1900s, the week before Christmas. The house is decorated for Christmas, and preparations are being made for a holiday dinner party with evidence of the Physick family’s various holiday activities throughout. You are invited into the house by a guide portraying a member of the Physick family in the early 1900s and will hear stories and traditions as you tour the first-floor rooms of the house. The tour also includes a visit to the Carroll Gallery to see “An Old-fashioned Christmas” exhibit, featuring a huge Christmas tree, model trains, and an elaborate Dept. 56 Dickens village collection. For ticket information, CLICK HERE.
Years” in the Carroll Gallery in the Carriage House located on the grounds of the Physick Estate. The exhibit’s main attraction is a display featuring a Dept. 56 Dickens Village, model trains and vintage Christmas memorabilia, all beneath the boughs of a giant Christmas tree. While there, letters to Santa can be deposited for mailing to the North Pole.
Ticket purchasers obtain a map and wristband the day before or day of the tour at the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. Advance purchase is highly recommended. Trolley shuttles will not be offered in 2024 as they were in years past. An express shuttle will, however, operate between the Physick Estate and the 1-2 farthest points. Not to worry. Most properties are clustered within a 20-minute walk in the Historic District with some just a few minutes from each other, and that makes walking the most efficient way to see the most properties with the least time spent waiting. Wear
Take this 30-minute eerie evening trolley ride during the Christmas season in historic Cape May and hear tales of Christmases long, long ago and not so long ago, as you travel along lovely, darkened streets in the historic district. Those who enjoy Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” with Scrooge and his frightening ghosts, will enjoy these stories about wintery shadows in Cape May. Hear about Santa arriving at this seaside town in odd and surprising ways, ghostly appearances in the 1879 Physick House museum experienced and recorded by staff there during the holidays, ghostly shadow spirits out strolling on cold December nights, the weird and risky games Victorians played at Christmas, and more. For ticket information, CLICK HERE.
• Emlen Physick Estate Tour during the holiday
See Cape May’s Victorian House Museum, the 1879 Emlen Physick House, decorated in true Victorian style for Christmas on this daytime
your most comfortable walking shoes, dress in layers, bring a flashlight, and feel the holiday merriment as you stroll and explore participating properties on foot in Cape May’s Historic District.
For more essential tour tips, visit the Cape May MAC blog site by CLICKING HERE.
Admission to the Christmas Candlelight House Tour is $45 for adults and $30 for children (ages 3 to 12). A list of participating properties is available at capemaymac. org. The tour is limited; it is strongly recommended that tickets be purchased online by visiting capemaymac.org or reserved in advance by calling 609-884-5404. Tickets should be picked up early after purchase at the Emlen Physick Estate. Any remaining tickets on the day of the tour may be purchased at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth, Washington and Ocean Streets. Properties on the tour are subject to change. CLICK HERE for updates. -- SK
45-minute holiday tour. Your guide will take you through the first and second floors of the 18-room mansion, voted “the most beautiful building in New Jersey,” and explain its importance and the history of the family and staff who lived and worked here. Learn about Victorian Christmas traditions along the way. Afterwards, visit the Carroll Gallery in the estate’s Carriage House to see “An Old-Fashioned Christmas” exhibit, with a marvelous Dept. 56 Dickens Village display. For ticket information, CLICK HERE. Tour and event tickets may be purchased in advance by phone at 609-884-5404, online at capemaymac.org or in person by visiting Hill House Visitor Service Center or Carriage House Visitor Service Center, both at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., or the Washington Street Mall Information Booth at Washington Street at Ocean Street. -- SK
(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1))
season, presented by Cape May MAC and sponsored by Sturdy Savings Bank. Visitors are invited to bring canned goods and nonperishable food items for collection during the evening to donate to the Cape May Community Food Bank, which helps feed needy families in the community, and stop by the Toys for Tots table to help support this worthy cause. This year features the John Walter Community Band celebrating 25 years and performing holiday favorites. The concert begins at 5:30 p.m. Santa will arrive to hit the switch on the huge Christmas tree on the estate at 7 p.m. from the outdoor stage.
The 1879 Physick House Museum is authentically decorated for a Victorian Christmas during the holiday season and visitors on Saturday, Nov. 23 can step inside the museum for a free, self-guided Physick Estate Christmas Tour, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The wonders of the season are on display beginning Nov. 22 in An Oldfashioned Christmas Exhibit in the Carroll Gallery at the Physick Estate’s Carriage House. Stand beneath the boughs of a giant Christmas tree! This exhibit features holiday traditions through the years that bring to life a child’s Christmas fantasy, complete with a delightful Dept. 56 Dickens Village, model trains, vintage Christmas family photos, toys and much more. Admission is free. CHECK OUT our new 3-minute video filmed in 2023 and watch how this special exhibit comes to life!
The best way to see Cape May’s Christmas lights during Holiday Preview Weekend is on board HOLIDAY LIGHTS TROLLEY RIDES. Ride through Cape May’s Historic District and see cheerfully decorated inns and homes as guides talk about Victorian Christmas traditions and play Christmas music. Rides last about 30 minutes and all season long they depart from the Ocean Street Trolley stop.
Step on board for SPIRITED CAPE MAY CHRISTMAS TROLLEY RIDES during the Christmas season in historic Cape May! Hear tales of Christmases long, long ago and not so long ago, as you travel along lovely streets in the historic district. Hear about Santa arriving at this seaside town in odd and surprising ways, ghostly appearances in the 1879 Physick House museum experienced and recorded by staff there during the holidays, ghostly shadow spirits out strolling on cold December nights, the weird and risky games Victorians played at Christmas, and more.
Old-fashioned
Dickens
Cape May MAC’s two museum shops, the Carriage House Museum Shop at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., and the Cape May Lighthouse Museum Shop, at the Cape May Lighthouse, 215 Lighthouse Ave. are fully accessible and open for extended hours throughout the holiday season. They offer museum quality gift ideas for the Cape May lover, including jewelry, silk scarves and ties, tea, books, Cape May apparel and more at the Carriage House Museum Shop, as well as locally crafted items and items designed in New York especially for the Emlen Physick Estate. There are selections for youngsters as well, including a curated selection of educational children’s books, toys, clothing, and plush toys. At the Cape May Lighthouse Museum shoppers will find toys, books and clothing, much not found anywhere else, for fans of the lighthouse. Parking is free at both locations. Proceeds from both of Cape May MAC’s museum shops benefit Cape May MAC’s historic preservation efforts. The Online Museum Shop is available wherever you are. For more information visit capemaymac.org.
Tour and event tickets may be purchased in advance by phone at 609-884-5404, online at capemaymac.org or in person by visiting Hill House Visitor Service Center or Carriage House Visitor Service Center, both at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048
Washington St., or the Washington Street Mall Information Booth at Washington Street at Ocean Street.
Deck your tree with some special memories of Cape May! Visit the Carriage House Museum Shop and pick up yours today!
(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2)
den Club - “Wineing” Down at the Season’s End
• Schools/PTA, Classrooms, Home School, and after-school clubs: WCM Elementary School – Staying Groovy
Cape May MAC again participated in Cape May’s annual Halloween Parade on Sunday, Oct. 20, adding a trolley and costumed volunteers to the festivities. The line of march always ends at the Physick Estate where the scarecrows are the perfect welcome for the marchers. We also provide refreshments for kids of all ages and host the awarding of trophies.
The scarecrows were also a great hit with the little ghosts and goblins who came trick or treating at the Physick Estate on Halloween.
The front porch of the Physick House was also Halloween-themed with the installation of the Dept. 56 Halloween Collection This was the perfect prelude to Phantoms of the Physick Estate: The Living Library, offered weekends in October.
Our focus is not entirely on ghosts and spirits in the Fall. We went back to our roots and celebrated Victorian Weekend with Architectural Walking Tours and a Victorian Weekend Historic House Tour. Our traditional Victorian Weekend Crafts & Collectibles Show took over the grounds of the Physick Estate on Sunday, Oct. 13. On Monday, Oct. 14, we presented For the Love of Hats, a fascinating overview of ladies’ hats through the ages over lunch at the Inn of Cape May.
We also presented our 12th annual Lessons of History Distinguished Lecture Series on Sunday, Oct. 13. Dr. Craig l. Symonds presented a topic compelling to our coastal community- “The War Comes Home to America: U-boats Off the Mid-Atlantic.” This lecture broke previous attendance records for this series. It also marked the first time Cape May MAC offered American Sign Language interpretation for its audience. For the first time, on Saturday of Victorian Weekend, we presented a vintage Victorian base ball (yes, it was originally spelled as two words) game, using 1864 rules, between the Athletic Base Ball Club of Philadelpha and the Brandywine Base Ball Club of West Chester. Some locals, including Mayor Zack Mullock, Dr. Physick himself (Cape May MAC Curator Ben Ridings, who also threw out the first pitch) and Cape May MAC Director & CEO Jody Alessandrine, all participated.
Victorian Weekend, Oct. 11-14, attracted many to this seaside resort and included a variety of exciting programs and tours celebrating the history of Cape May, including a Victorian Weekend Historic House Tour, among other tours, activities and events.
Our museum educators have been busy during this period as well. Mark Allen and Mary Stewart provided programs for the Blind Center of the Jersey Cape and Mary and Brenda Leonard visited Victorian Towers. Our Lunch & Learn programs continue to attract a loyal audience both in person at the Cape May Lutheran Church Hall and by Zoom. Programs this Fall included The 50s Woman (Mary Stewart), Victorian Schools Days (Teddy Bryan) and Building Dioramas (Joe Asterino). Joe created several elaborate dioramas specially for our program.
-- MES