Hereford Inlet Lighthouse

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Hereford Inlet Lighthouse

(North Wildwood, New Jersey)

The Hereford Inlet Lighthouse is a wood frame residential style lighthouse that was designed by Paul J. Pelz, Chief Draftsman of the U.S. Lighthouse Board. The lighthouse is located on the south side of the Hereford Inlet in southern New Jersey in the town of North Wildwood.

Strong currents and shifting sandbars near the entrance of Hereford Inlet presents a very dangerous area to boats and ships. Many shipwrecks and groundings have occurred in this area. In the mid to late 1800s there was a growth of the shipping and fishing industries in the area and the use of the Inlet increased. Realizing the need for a lighthouse, Congress, in June of 1872, passed legislation that allow for the purchase of land and construction of a lighthouse. The lighthouse was built on the Dune area overlooking the approach to the Inlet. It remained here until 1913 when a severe storm did significant damage to the foundation which made it necessary to relocate the lighthouse 150 feet to the west, placing it where it is today.

The lighthouse was initially fitted with a fourth-order Fresnel lens and became operational in May of 1874. The light could be seen at a range of 13 nautical miles and continued in its operation until 1964. In this year an iron lighthouse tower was constructed that contained a modern beacon. The original lighthouse was shut down, closed up and the property transferred to the New Jersey Marine Police. The boar

In 1982, following a great effort by Major Anthony Catanoso, a lease was signed that turned over the stewardship responsibility of the Lighthouse to the city of North Wildwood, New Jersey. The restoration work began immediately. Many people helped to raise funds and contribute their time and effort to the project. In July of 1983 a portion of the lighthouse was opened to the public. In 1986 the marine beacon from the iron light tower that had been serving as the Inlet lighthouse was move to the restored original lighthouse lantern room. Back in service again, the Hereford Inlet Lighthouses continues to be an active aid to navigation.

The lighthouse grounds have been developed into beautiful gardens by the City’s Parks Department. English Cottage Gardens, designed by Steve Murray, surround the Lighthouse and contain over 170 plant varieties. The lighthouse building contains a gift shop.

Directions: Take the Route 147 exit off of the Garden State Parkway and drive east into North Wildwood. Once in town turn to the left and follow Central Ave. north. The lighthouse is at 111 North Central Ave.

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