Keep our Light Shining at Absecon Lighthouse!

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About Absecon Lighthouse

Location:

31 S RHODE ISLAND AVE, ATLANTIC CITY, NJ 08401, US

Mission Statement

The Inlet Public/Private Association was established in 1988 by a coalition of community, civic, business and government interests whose shared purpose was to promote the successful redevelopment of the Inlet section of Atlantic City. In 1993, IPPA adopted Atlantic City’s Absecon Lighthouse and began planning its restoration.

The Association 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.

Description

Welcome to Absecon Lighthouse, the tallest in New Jersey and the third tallest masonry lighthouse in the United States. This tower, standing at 171 feet, has been a majestic presence on the Atlantic City coastline for 152 years now. Constructed under the supervision of George Gordon Meade, who later commanded victorious Union Troops at the Battle of Gettysburg, Absecon Lighthouse saved countless lives once she began guiding ships through the treacherous "Graveyard Inlet." Due to her unique location in a thriving resort town, she also became the most visited lighthouse in America in the early twentieth century. After being decommissioned in 1933 and subsequently falling into disrepair, this stunning property saw a massive renovation in the late 1990’s and now tourists visit us to climb the 228 stairs to the beacon, reminisce in the rebuilt Head Keeper’s Cottage and Museum, enjoy our 2-acre lawn and absorb the rich culture and history we offer. Absecon Lighthouse has seen a 20% increase in visitation over the past year alone and has recently developed several new educational programs and field trips for schools as well as special fundraising events. Yet, in keeping with our attached strategic plan, we are still hoping to build a better relationship with our neighbors.